Energy Hacker-Reviving Spaces for Efficiency

Candice Min Candice Min

Guardians

Driving Questions

  1. How can energy consumption in a classroom be assessed, and what effective energy-saving solutions can be designed to reduce energy waste?
  2. How can renewable energy and energy-saving technologies be utilized during classroom renovation to maximize energy efficiency?
  3. How can proper heat loss calculations and insulation improvements be used to reduce building energy losses?
  4. During classroom renovation, how can the balance between technical feasibility, economic considerations, and environmental impact be achieved to ensure the sustainability of the solution?
  5. How can the positive environmental impacts of energy-saving measures, especially in terms of reducing carbon emissions and reliance on fossil fuels, be quantified and evaluated?
  6. How can models be used to simulate the changes in classroom energy consumption, demonstrating the energy-saving effects before and after the renovation?

Project Introduction

Disciplines/Subjects: Physics, Mathematics, Environmental Science, Engineering, Computer Science, Sustainable Development and Energy Management

Key Themes: Sustainable Development, 3D Printing, Energy Management


This project focuses on creating an energy-efficient renovation system for school classrooms through innovative energy technologies and design methods. We are developing a comprehensive energy efficiency improvement plan aimed at maximizing classroom energy efficiency and minimizing energy waste through the use of renewable energy and energy-saving technologies. Traditional energy renovations often rely on manual intervention, which is costly and difficult to scale. Our system leverages scientific energy surveys, heat loss calculations, and the application of energy-saving technologies to provide an energy management solution that can be continuously assessed and improved, helping schools reduce energy consumption and lower carbon emissions.

The core of this project is a data-driven analytical engine that provides quantifiable energy-saving solutions by calculating classroom energy consumption, heat loss, and the effects of energy-saving measures. Through detailed energy surveys and heat loss analysis of the classroom, students will propose the most suitable energy-saving renovation plans based on data, ensuring that the renovated classroom maintains efficient energy use under various environmental conditions.

To better demonstrate the results of the energy-saving renovation, students will create 3D-printed models simulating the energy consumption of the renovated classroom. Through these models, such as adding insulation, installing solar panels, and upgrading the lighting system, students will visually understand how spatial design can enhance energy efficiency. Indoor circuit design will also be integrated, with students designing and simulating new lighting and energy systems to demonstrate how proper circuit design can reduce energy waste.

For the thermal energy aspect, students will create a thermal energy demonstration model, visually showing heat loss and heat flow to demonstrate how different building materials and design solutions impact energy efficiency. This model will help students understand how to reduce heat loss in classrooms by improving insulation materials, enhancing window and door sealing, and installing energy-saving devices.

Through this intelligent energy-saving design and feedback mechanism, students will gain a systematic energy renovation experience, learning how to improve classroom energy efficiency while reducing environmental impact through reasonable design. We believe that through this project, students will not only enhance their environmental awareness and practical skills but also bring sustainable energy solutions to the school, contributing to the achievement of sustainable development goals. This project is not only a technical tool but also a social transformation aimed at improving the energy efficiency and environmental quality of schools.

Core Competency

Habits of mind: Creativity & Problem Solving, Critical Thinking, Adaptability & Flexibility

Cognitive skills: Systems Thinking, Data Analysis & Decision Making, Engineering Design & Optimization

Content Knowledge: Energy Management & Sustainability, Mathematics & Physics Knowledge, Engineering & Technology Application

Execution & Collaboration: Project Management, Teamwork & Communication

Environmental & Social Responsibility: Environmental Impact Assessment, Sustainable Development Goals