Measure, compare, understand.
At the centre of LocLab are two modular demonstration buildings that serve as real-world labs for developing, testing and scientifically evaluating innovative construction methods. In these Modular Houses, novel circular construction and material systems are tested under real conditions – including a largely glue-free timber frame construction and an insulation made of clay and regional wood shavings.
Using BIM and virtual reality models, extensive measurement campaigns and life cycle assessments (LCA), the buildings are examined with regard to energy efficiency, indoor quality, airtightness, thermal comfort, acoustics, environmental impact and circularity. The tests take place in different climate zones of South Tyrol in order to analyse the performance of the systems under varying conditions.
In addition, the real-world labs are used for workshops, participatory formats and user studies. This makes it possible to scientifically examine both the technical performance of the solutions developed and their perception and acceptance among the public. The findings form the basis for practical recommendations and future applications in sustainable building.
What is measured.
Energy efficiency
Heating and cooling demand, heat losses and behaviour of the building envelope over the year.
Indoor quality
Air quality, humidity and pollutant emissions of the materials used.
Airtightness
Airtightness of the glue-free construction compared with conventional systems.
Thermal comfort
Surface and room temperatures, thermal behaviour of the materials.
Acoustics
Sound insulation and room acoustics of the modular construction.
Environmental impact (LCA)
Holistic life cycle assessment based on directly collected data.
Circularity
Separability, reuse and recycling of the components at end of life.
Well-being & perception
User studies on living quality, perception and acceptance.
Three perspectives, one real-world lab.
The test procedures of the individual strands will be described here in detail as the project progresses.
Indoor quality
Measurement campaigns on energy, humidity, airtightness, acoustics and thermal comfort in both Modular Houses.
Living quality & well-being
Perception studies with users – including virtual reality and eye tracking.
Transdisciplinary approach
Participatory formats in which research, companies and the public develop and evaluate solutions together.