Building Neurology

Computers automatically adjust passive and active systems to keep the building comfortable and efficient.

• Like the brain, the systems help the building respond to and interact with the environment
• Controls include Heating/Cooling, Passive/Mechanical Ventilation, daylighting and metabolic systems

Building Management Systems (BMS) in office buildings are nothing new. In fact, they stem from the mechanization of building conditioning. On the most basic level, a building management system is a ‘control system that operates and regulates various appliances for building service functions’ (Knippe, BMS Patent).

The Bullitt Center integrates the BMS into the passive and active systems that help maintain a comfortable office setting with net zero consumption of energy and water. Like the human brain, the building management system senses the internal and external conditions, and engages the appropriate systems. When the building needs to breath, the windows are opened automatically. When the building needs shade from direct sunlight, the louver system is deployed at the optimum angle for UV dissipation. In cold weather, the building goes into closed heating mode, in which the ‘brain’ will shut all the windows and activate the ground source heat pumps.

At the Bullitt Center, the BMS is responsible for the control of the heating system, cooling system, passive and active ventilation systems, daylight control, composters and grey water metabolism. All these systems are carefully monitored for maximum efficiency at the main control room in the core of the building.

Next building feature: Composting Toilets