Bluetooth-Tracing RSSI Sampling Method as Basic Technology of Indoor Localization for Smart Grid

In recent years, Smart Grid have become the center of interest for IT companies and construction companies and various types of Smart Grids have been made currently available on the market. Yet, equipment is costly and it is not easy to convert existing equipment for Smart Grid application as they may require additional resources which could also inflict much costs. The extra costs involving the remodeling of existing housing structure and installment of new equipment can be avoided by using advanced wireless technologies. As an example, this book proposed an indoor localization system that adopts Bluetooth technology and uses RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indication) values for localization. Researchers have configured a system where the central control device will recognize all other devices or equipment in the system, communicate with each other, and respond to the commands or the information provided. However, despite the efforts of many researchers, existing RSSI-based indoor localization systems do not show a satisfactory level of accuracy such that we have devised a system that traces the trend in the RSSI samples.

Effects of Wall-to-Wall Supported Ceilings on Impact Sound Insulation for Use in Residential Buildings

In Korean residential buildings, floor impact sounds were reduced over the past few decades mainly through a floating floor system. However, ceiling constructions for impact sound reduction have not been applied actively because of a lack of useful information. This study focuses on the effects of wall-to-wall supported ceilings (WSC), which are designed with construction discontinuities between concrete slabs and ceilings, and the damping caused by porous absorbers for impact sound insulation. To examine the impact sound insulation according to ceiling conditions, measurements were performed in 25 floor–ceiling assemblies. The results indicate that ceiling treatment is mostly useful in reducing the floor impact sound. The floor impact sound owing to the WSC decreased by 2–7 dB and 2–8 dB in terms of the single number quantity for the tapping machine and rubber balls, respectively, compared with representative existing housing constructions wherein ceilings were attached on wooden sticks. Furthermore, the reduction effect of the WSC appeared to be more profound when it was applied to the floor–ceiling assembly with poor impact sound insulation. Thus, the WSC can be used to enhance the impact of sound insulation of existing housings without major repairs of floor structural layers.

ESTHETIC AND FORM CREATION PROBLEM OF SUMMER SPACES

A lot of mass media write about the summer spaces aesthetics problem. The articles, notes, posts, blogs and other content are dedicated primarily to the experience of housing exploitation. However, architects, urban planners and other professionals determine the problem rather rarely. Summer spaces, first of all, balconies, loggias and terraces are important as functionally as aesthetically for the creation of comfortable, modern and visually expressive housing. Architects must provide both functional and aesthetic solutions, knowing that homeowners can change their designs. You must use the best domestic and foreign experience to prevent the unwanted changes which are analyzed in this article. Without this, balconies and loggias will be glazed by either the developer, which significantly worsens the aesthetics of the facade or residents, which makes the worst solution. First of all, summer spaces must have the appropriate proportions and engineering supplies. Balconies and loggias must have artificial lighting and electricity supply, they can also be equipped with water supply rain sewer, heating and cooling systems. With maximum equipment, summer spaces can play the role of a summer living room or a multifunctional space. In hot weather, balconies and loggias can even be used as a bedroom, which is important due to global warming. In addition to engineering supply it is necessary to provide some spatial standards: minimum width not less than 1.6 m with a length less than 3.5 m, 1.8 m for 3,5 -4,5 m length, and 2m for more than 4.5m. The area of balconies and loggias should be 4 -12 m2. Summer spaces fencing should not reduce sunlight and daylight in the rooms - so the glass or vertical metal handrails are the best solutions. It is also advisable to combine deaf parts with visually permeable. To implement these proposals, it is necessary to make legislative changes in summer spaces standards. Increasing of housing culture level and informing about the best and sustainable examples is also important. Balconies and loggias in existing housing can be dismantled and replaced with more functional ones through a comprehensive renovation program. The option of individual reconstruction is not appropriate.

The Home as an Incubator for Dignity in Old Age: An Architectural Exploration for Dignified Ageing

<p>The main intention of this research is to develop a method of increasing the number of residential dwellings which can enable ageing New Zealanders to age in place and experience a dignified ageing process. This is in response to an ageing population, expected to result in a quarter of New Zealanders being over 65 by the year 2030. As a higher proportion of the population will consist of ageing citizens, predominantly Baby Boomers, retaining a high quality of life into old age will become an issue of increasing importance. Attaining this high quality of life is dependent on the provision of dignity and the ability to age in place, and this thesis argues that the built environment plays a significant role in enabling dignity for those ageing. A review of relevant literature informs a theoretical framework which is utilised as the basis of social and architectural critique of the three prolific existing housing options for the elderly. Common architectural and programmatic deficiencies illustrate that in their current state, the existing housing stock and living models designed specifically for the elderly simply do not provide architectural environments conducive of enabling dignity of ageing occupants. As the designers of the built environment, architects have the ability to shape spaces and places which can enable dignity. In response to the lack of appropriate housing environments for the ageing, this thesis proposes three alternative architectural models. These explorations consist of the proactive retrofit of a typical 1940’s State house, the proactive retrofit of a typical 1990’s McMansion, and the proactive new build of a medium density cluster of dwellings. All three models implement common architectural principles and elements, advocated for within the theoretical framework, in order to explore the viability and validity of each of the proposed living models. Overall the research suggests that the three proposed alternative architectural environments do enable dignity in old age, and could viably be incorporated into New Zealand’s future social and architectural context. The architectural methods used and design decisions made are able to be applied to a large number of dwellings and have the potential to increase the number of New Zealanders who can age in place with dignity.</p>

The Home as an Incubator for Dignity in Old Age: An Architectural Exploration for Dignified Ageing

<p>The main intention of this research is to develop a method of increasing the number of residential dwellings which can enable ageing New Zealanders to age in place and experience a dignified ageing process. This is in response to an ageing population, expected to result in a quarter of New Zealanders being over 65 by the year 2030. As a higher proportion of the population will consist of ageing citizens, predominantly Baby Boomers, retaining a high quality of life into old age will become an issue of increasing importance. Attaining this high quality of life is dependent on the provision of dignity and the ability to age in place, and this thesis argues that the built environment plays a significant role in enabling dignity for those ageing. A review of relevant literature informs a theoretical framework which is utilised as the basis of social and architectural critique of the three prolific existing housing options for the elderly. Common architectural and programmatic deficiencies illustrate that in their current state, the existing housing stock and living models designed specifically for the elderly simply do not provide architectural environments conducive of enabling dignity of ageing occupants. As the designers of the built environment, architects have the ability to shape spaces and places which can enable dignity. In response to the lack of appropriate housing environments for the ageing, this thesis proposes three alternative architectural models. These explorations consist of the proactive retrofit of a typical 1940’s State house, the proactive retrofit of a typical 1990’s McMansion, and the proactive new build of a medium density cluster of dwellings. All three models implement common architectural principles and elements, advocated for within the theoretical framework, in order to explore the viability and validity of each of the proposed living models. Overall the research suggests that the three proposed alternative architectural environments do enable dignity in old age, and could viably be incorporated into New Zealand’s future social and architectural context. The architectural methods used and design decisions made are able to be applied to a large number of dwellings and have the potential to increase the number of New Zealanders who can age in place with dignity.</p>

Ahuriri: "the dwelling place of the eel" and "a hopeless spot for a town": Napier in the 1850s

This paper looks at the early Pākehā settlers of Napier in the 1850s, and attempts to unravel what houses they had, where they were, and what styles they were built in. In the course of this investigation, an inevitable intersection with the pre-existing Māori iwi was unearthed and is also examined. It searches for the earliest existing housing remains in Hawkes Bay. So far, very little has been discovered remaining from the 1850s.

Skala i skutki alienacji młodych Polaków na rynku mieszkaniowym

As statistics show, few people can afford to buy an apartment. Many people cannot even afford to rent. On the other hand, the overcrowding rate and the number of adults living permanently with their parents in Poland are among the highest in Europe. Outstanding architects and sociologists have been dealing with housing problems for many years. In many countries, research is conducted showing the importance and essence of the problem, not only in the economic context but also in the psychological, health, and social context that influences the behavior and attitudes of future generations. Access to housing is not only a question of ensuring safety, stability, and shelter; it also affects social relations that constitute the basis of the existence of the individuals and the families. Own house is a collection of meanings, codes, and symbols. It is a product of multi-faceted and multi-generational, interdependent values. Failure to understand these issues eliminates all forms of striving for sustainable development. This article aims to discuss the existing housing problem from diversified perspectives, with particular emphasis on the analysis of the current housing situation among adult Poles. The author will present the topic in some analogy to the condition of the 19th century alienated worker. Based on the conducted research, predictions about the intergenerational effects of the situation disrupting the city's sustainable development in its economic and social layer, having a significant impact on future generations, will also be formulated. Next, the author of the paper presents the results of research conducted from July to October 2020. The study was a part of expert analysis concerning an alternative mortgage lending model for residential purposes, commissioned by the Warsaw Banking Institute Foundation.

Enriching the Envelope Experience

<p><b>Enriching the Envelope Experience is a design strategy for an external retrofit to revitalise existing housing. The aim is to create warmer, drier, healthier homes without having to displace the occupants.</b></p> <p>For many New Zealander’s, inefficient housing is negatively affecting occupant health and wellbeing.</p> <p>Preventable health issues place pressure on healthcare systems, costing valuable resources. The climate, housing, and healthcare crisis desperately require improvements to existing housing for warmer, healthier, and happier homes. Currently, the design of New Zealand housing is inefficient for climate resulting in uncomfortable living conditions. There is a global dependence on finite resources, and the ongoing resource use will reach capacity. Desperate attention to the environmental and economic impact is needed to sustain the precious resources. NewZealand is obligated to reach the 2050 climate goals.</p> <p>The design of buildings needs attention to mitigate the 39% carbon emissions by the construction industry and achieve net-zero carbon housing goals.</p> <p>Lengthy rebuilds require displacing people from their homes and communities and increase the demand for housing and resources. The demolition and rebuild further adds to the significant waste issue.</p> <p>Therefore, there is an opportunity to improve the existing housing stock as a readily available resource.</p> <p>The 1940s-1960s State House is a standardized housing typology mass-produced in New Zealand, and often of poor condition, it was an appropriate site to investigate for a retrofit design strategy.</p> <p>A design framework informed by sustainable design standards, case studies and understanding of the 1940s-1960s house typology directed the design process. The research outcome resulted in an external wall design strategy to improve the occupants’ home experience.</p>

Enriching the Envelope Experience

<p><b>Enriching the Envelope Experience is a design strategy for an external retrofit to revitalise existing housing. The aim is to create warmer, drier, healthier homes without having to displace the occupants.</b></p> <p>For many New Zealander’s, inefficient housing is negatively affecting occupant health and wellbeing.</p> <p>Preventable health issues place pressure on healthcare systems, costing valuable resources. The climate, housing, and healthcare crisis desperately require improvements to existing housing for warmer, healthier, and happier homes. Currently, the design of New Zealand housing is inefficient for climate resulting in uncomfortable living conditions. There is a global dependence on finite resources, and the ongoing resource use will reach capacity. Desperate attention to the environmental and economic impact is needed to sustain the precious resources. NewZealand is obligated to reach the 2050 climate goals.</p> <p>The design of buildings needs attention to mitigate the 39% carbon emissions by the construction industry and achieve net-zero carbon housing goals.</p> <p>Lengthy rebuilds require displacing people from their homes and communities and increase the demand for housing and resources. The demolition and rebuild further adds to the significant waste issue.</p> <p>Therefore, there is an opportunity to improve the existing housing stock as a readily available resource.</p> <p>The 1940s-1960s State House is a standardized housing typology mass-produced in New Zealand, and often of poor condition, it was an appropriate site to investigate for a retrofit design strategy.</p> <p>A design framework informed by sustainable design standards, case studies and understanding of the 1940s-1960s house typology directed the design process. The research outcome resulted in an external wall design strategy to improve the occupants’ home experience.</p>