In the heart of Taipei, a groundbreaking study is reshaping how we think about preserving our cultural heritage while also considering the environment. Dr. H. Chen, a researcher from Taipei National University of the Arts, has been delving into the digital governance of historically preserved buildings, with a particular focus on the National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts (NTMFA). The research, published in ‘The International Archives of the Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and Spatial Information Sciences’ (known in English as ‘The International Archives of the Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and Spatial Information Sciences’), is not just about preserving art; it’s about reimagining how we interact with our past in a sustainable, energy-efficient way.
For years, museums and historically preserved buildings have relied on manual methods and airtight construction to control their environments. This approach, while effective in preserving artifacts, has been a significant drain on energy resources. “Historically, environmental control in art museums relied on manual aids and airtight construction, leading to significant energy consumption and complete Monument isolation,” explains Dr. Chen. But with advancements in artificial intelligence and digital management, there’s a new way forward.
Dr. Chen’s study utilizes a combination of literature review, case studies, and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to propose a more sustainable approach. By analyzing the NTMFA, the research team conducted wind environment simulations and thermography analysis using tools like PHOENICS and PIX4D. The findings were revealing. “Direct isolation of the physical environment control and aesthetics-oriented external planting methods make it difficult to reduce the indoor temperature and improve the air quality. These methods are also very energy-consuming,” Dr. Chen notes.
The study suggests that the NTMFA could employ four strategies to enhance both indoor and outdoor spaces: passive and active design, area redrawing, digital management of active design areas, and improvement of passive areas. These strategies aim to prevent direct isolation between the monument and the environment while optimizing indoor and outdoor wind environments.
The implications of this research extend far beyond the walls of the NTMFA. In an era where energy efficiency and sustainability are at the forefront of global conversations, Dr. Chen’s work offers a blueprint for how historically preserved buildings can reduce their energy consumption without compromising the integrity of the artifacts they house. This could lead to significant energy savings and reduced emissions, making it a win-win for both cultural preservation and the environment.
As Dr. Chen’s research gains traction, it could inspire similar studies and implementations worldwide. The energy sector, in particular, stands to benefit from these findings, as the demand for sustainable solutions continues to grow. By integrating digital governance and advanced technologies, we can preserve our cultural heritage while also paving the way for a more sustainable future.
In the words of Dr. Chen, “This study is not just about preserving art; it’s about reimagining how we interact with our past in a sustainable, energy-efficient way.” And with the insights gleaned from this research, that future is looking brighter and more sustainable than ever.