Towards a Platform of Investigative Tools for

buildings Article

Towards a Platform of Investigative Tools for Biomimicry as a New Approach for Energy-Efficient Building Design Natasha Chayaamor-Heil * and Nazila Hannachi-Belkadi MAP-Maacc, CNRS-MCC UMR 3495, ENSA PARIS-La-Villette, Paris (75), France; [email protected] * Correspondence: [email protected]; Tel.: +33-1-5372-8470 Academic Editor: Maibritt Pedersen Zari Received: 31 October 2016; Accepted: 20 February 2017; Published: 6 March 2017

Abstract: Major problems worldwide are environmental concern and energy shortage along with the high consumption of energy in buildings and the lack of sources. Buildings are the most intensive energy consumers, and account for 40% of worldwide energy use, which is much more than transportation. In next 25 years, CO2 emissions from buildings are projected to grow faster than in other sectors. Thus, architects must attempt to find solutions for managing buildings energy consumption. One of new innovative approaches is Biomimicry, which is defined as the applied science that derives inspiration for solutions to human problems through the study of natural designs’ principles. Although biomimicry is considered to be a new approach for achieving sustainable architecture, but there is still not enough access for architects to make use of it, especially to implement biomimetic design strategy in architectural project. The main objective of this paper is to raise awareness of architects making use of biomimetic strategies with better accessible facility. We propose to create the tool setting relationship to formalize and bridge between biological and architectural knowledge, along with investigative tools to investigate the ability of reducing energy consumption by applying the biomimetic strategies on efficient-energy building design. This article hypothetically proposes an investigative tool based on Bayesian networks for testing the rapid result of choices from natural devices according to specific multi-criteria requirements in each case study. Keywords: biomimicry; architectural design; energy efficiency; sustainability; data analysis; Bayesian network

1. Introduction The energy consumed through using buildings and producing building materials forms a significant portion of overall energy consumption in affluent societies today [1]. We are nowadays facing two major problems related to energy consumption. One is the depletion of energy resources and mineral raw material and another, the increase of various types of pollution that cause what is commonly called global warming [2]. Indeed, the release of the greenhouse effect results primarily from the burning of fossil fuels, whose reserves are falling dramatically, and are used in the building industry to ensure both comfort and performance of materials and systems composed. Depletion of mineral resources in the construction sector is, by volume, the consumer faces a waste accumulation of the problem that is growing and that today is increasingly difficult to manage [3]. Buildings, because their heating consumption in industrialized countries uses more than half of energy, is therefore the biggest polluter [4]. Saving energy in the building (in both its consumption and at its completion) would effectively contribute to the grip of the decrease of the problems cited. Energy flows through buildings need to be better structured and managed, and their occupants need to change existing patterns of Buildings 2017, 7, 19; doi:10.3390/buildings7010019

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behavior [5]. There are several reasons why this prospect is challenging. The way buildings come into being is a complex and adversarial affair driven by economic considerations and the avoidance of risk, which favor incremental improvements of established designs. Many works are incurred in responding to these questions, either by improving the performance envelopes [6], HVAC systems [7], energy production [8], but also to promote reuse in architecture and well reduce the waste of natural resources [9]. We propose in this work to question biomimicry as a source of inspiration for architects and builders in order to provide the solutions that nature can find: by integrating its environment and optimizing energy and material necessary for its survival. Biomimicry could be used as a tool for energy-efficient building design aiming to achieve reducing energy consumption by innovative design and sustainable energy generation without negatively impacting the natural environment. By looking at the living world, there may be organisms or systems that can be mimicked to create and maintain clean energy generation or sustainable technologies [10]. Additionally, biomimicry provides the means to determine achievable goals for development based on physical reality. It also provides the method to achieve these goals, and at the same time it points to countless examples that can be emulated. Although there are many smart solutions inspired by natural phenomena, it is not always clear how analogies were abstracted from the biological process. Life’s principle could provide specific design ideas (strategies) and metric to measure whether the proposed design indeed meets nature sustainability principles [11]. However, some of the principles are general and their application in engineering design is neither clear nor straightforward. In addition, it is unclear how the life principles were revealed and how to search for new ones [12]. Thus, we propose to facilitate a tool for biomimetic design strategies to set objectives and metrics that can be used for deciding which of the biomimetic ideas should be further elaborated. In addition, we provide information as to what requirements (multi-criteria) are appropriate to explore the chosen biomimetic ideas. Finally, it will conclude with the tool setting relationship knowledge between biology and architecture, applied to biomimetic strategies and the design of energy-efficient buildings. This tool could provide to search suitable principles in nature in an applicable way for architects to meet specificity in each project implementation. 2. Overview of Energy-Efficient Building Design When we talk about energy conservation, it is customary to say that the design process is done in three phases [13]. Indeed, one of the key approaches to low-energy design is to invest in the building’s form and enclosure. The first is to reduce energy needs by carefully designing the building envelope so that the heating, cooling and lighting loads are reduced. The second is to offset the remaining needs for efficient systems and appliances, and the third aims to make the most of resources, which means free energy that are available in the occupation site. These three phases can be reduced considerably the energy consumption effectively for the new building without user’s impact (an understanding of building occupancy and activities can lead to building designs that can save energy, reduce cost and improve occupant comfort and workplace performance) [14]. Nevertheless, if we want to concern deeper it is necessary to consider the building throughout its life cycle, that means to reflect its operations and maintenances, refer to its demolition. These phases according to their support during the design process will require more or less energy. We must also add to the embodied energy necessary for its implementation, its rehabilitation and demolition. This is a global vision that provides an essential place in the energy criterion (of all kinds of uses) among other architectural criteria we must have. In view of the crisis of the source that the world is currently living [15], is another point to add. This aspect highlights the need to optimize the use of the material to see the establishment of a re-employment system. (If one want to look more of what all the nature has). 2.1. Reduce Energy Needs Humans have always taken advantage of local conditions by offering a vernacular architecture, which for centuries has operated with means often-simple characteristics and natural resources of their environment. If we observe how these architectures are able to give their best characteristics for

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their environment. If we observe how these architectures are able to give their best characteristics for differentenvironments environmentsand andresponse responsetotospecific specificneeds needssuch suchas asthe theTuareg Tuaregtent, tent,Inuit Inuitigloos igloos(Figure (Figure1a) 1a) different and troglodyte Ethiopian church [3]. Gradually, as technology is developed, the architectures and troglodyte Ethiopian church [3]. Gradually, as technology is developed, the architectures become become more sophisticated to meet theand needs and comforts of itsregardless users regardless of the performance more sophisticated to meet the needs comforts of its users of the performance of the of the envelope to environmental impact or approach overall energy needs to the envelope to environmental impact or approach overall energy needs to go throughgo thethrough awareness awareness of the essential to a good design. architectural design. Ventilation air heating of the essential elements to aelements good architectural Ventilation and air heatingand systems have, systems have, for some time, [3] solved only the comforts of requirements by increasing their powers for some time [3], solved only the comforts of requirements by increasing their powers regardless of regardless the service, costs to environmental impact. the service, of incurring costsincurring to environmental impact. Basedonon observation, the new French new energy performance of regulation—aka new building Based thisthis observation, the French energy performance of new building regulation—aka RT2012 [16] today imposes through bioclimatic needs (as a tool). new RT2012 [16] today imposes through bioclimatic needs (as a tool). This new regulation aimsThis to reach regulation aims to reach low energy consumption for all new building along with bioclimatic design low energy consumption for all new building along with bioclimatic design principles, which aim at principles, which aim at thethat construction of buildings aresurroundings in harmony and withlocal the climate, natural the construction of buildings are in harmony with the that natural surroundings and local climate, ensuring conditions of thermal comfort inside (Figure 1b). The ensuring conditions of thermal comfort inside (Figure 1b). The steps to follow to achieve this steps goal to followato achieve this goal through a bioclimatic design of the (1) solar The building natural through bioclimatic design of the project: (1) The building asproject: a natural collectorasina winter: solar collector winter: maximizing the glazed surfaces facing south to take advantage of free solar maximizing thein glazed surfaces facing south to take advantage of free solar gain and minimize the glass gain and minimize the glass surfaces facing north, where heat losses are higher than solar gain; (2) surfaces facing north, where heat losses are higher than solar gain; (2) The building serving as a heat The building serving as a heat trap: the compactness of the project, reduce the trap: optimizing the compactness of theoptimizing project, to reduce the dissipating surface; (3) to The building dissipating surface; (3) The building serving as a heat storage: increasing the insulation thickness; (4) serving as a heat storage: increasing the insulation thickness; (4) Dealing with thermal bridges by Dealing with thermal bridges by providing an exterior insulation, or by setting up the thermal providing an exterior insulation, or by setting up the thermal bridge breakers; (5) The building serving bridge breakers; (5)trap/storage: The building Sun serving as a natural cooling trap/storage: Sun protection, natural as a natural cooling protection, natural ventilation; (6) Offering quality doors and ventilation; (6) Offering quality doors and windows (triple glazing, thermally optimized) and etc. windows (triple glazing, thermally optimized) and etc.

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Figure 1. (a) Igloo construction, with the compact of snow to insulate the interior where is warmed Figure 1. (a) Igloo construction, with the compact of snow to insulate the interior where is warmed by by body heat alone [17]; (b) Interlocking fields: Bioclimatic Design [18]. body heat alone [17]; (b) Interlocking fields: Bioclimatic Design [18].

2.2. Efficient Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Systems (HVAC) 2.2. Efficient Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Systems (HVAC) Once energy requirements are reduced through a bioclimatic design, a choice of Once energy requirements are reduced through a bioclimatic design, a choice of high-performance high-performance materials (insulation, glazing, etc.) and power systems (HVAC and lighting) will materials (insulation, glazing, etc.) and power systems (HVAC and lighting) will be lower and so it be lower and so it will economize over the long term (investment as consumption). Much of the will economize over the long term (investment as consumption). Much of the French building stock, French building stock, for example, is renewing its air by natural ventilation (opening windows, air for example, is renewing its air by natural ventilation (opening windows, air infiltration related to infiltration related to leaks, etc.). This ventilation mode generates significant heat loss and is not leaks, etc.). This ventilation mode generates significant heat loss and is not adapted to the requirements adapted to the requirements by reducing current energy consumption; this is often due to the by reducing current energy consumption; this is often due to the difficulty to master this type of difficulty to master this type of ventilation. Therefore, regulation RT 2012 [16] geared more toward ventilation. Therefore, regulation RT 2012 [16] geared more toward developers of active techniques developers of active techniques (VMC single stream or dual stream) to ensure efficient and (VMC single stream or dual stream) to ensure efficient and controlled ventilation but at what price? controlled ventilation but at what price? In the best case, a mixed choice is offered as is practiced in In the best case, a mixed choice is offered as is practiced in the building of the house in Alsace region the building of the house in Alsace region of France in which the proposed solution is a natural of France in which the proposed solution is a natural ventilation system assisted and controlled ventilation system assisted and controlled (VNAC) [16]. Depending on the climate, it is possible to (VNAC) [16]. Depending on the climate, it is possible to reduce considerably view to cancel the reduce considerably view to cancel the heating or cooling needs, just by proper design such as heating or cooling needs, just by proper design such as “PassiveHous” project [19] and super insulated “PassiveHous” project [19] and super insulated envelope and super tight, or alternative envelope and super tight, or alternative constructions “Earthship” Michael Raynolds California [20], constructions “Earthship” Michael Raynolds California [20], which in addition to excelling in the art


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which in addition to excelling in the art of reuse of materials has inspired systems integration of vernacular architecture as a greenhouse associated with high inertia heating and adiabatic cooling, to reduce strongly the need for active systems. 2.3. Production of Sustainable Energy In the best case, after we carefully design buildings with a high-performance envelope, efficient HVAC and lighting systems. It is customary to offer high efficiency power generation systems and promote those using renewable energy (solar panels, heat exchangers, natural wind). It has been proved that, apart from the proven performance systems such as photovoltaic for energy production, for example, its production and processing end of life is disastrous from the ecological point of view [21] do realize through literature and examples of built works we know today, to construct buildings those consume little or zero energy. However, we realize that also includes proposed solutions to achieve are not completely harmless and at the end the energy balance of the building, although efficient in terms of consumption, is not so neutral as that. Indeed, the choice of high performance insulation that is not bio-sourced, therefore difficult to recyclable, and for a heating system or production of active energy has an impact on the environment. Therefore, the question we can ask ourselves is: What can we do to promote the use of less harmful and more passive solutions for the environment without affecting the performance in terms of building consumption? Added to this, is the question of life cycle [22] building energy costs by embodied energy implemented to produce the materials and systems that make up these buildings, their maintenances and end of life treatment and the impact of users on final consumption. Indeed, we still have a lot of work to achieve before to get to our ideal: ‘Building Energetically Efficient and Ecologically’. We believe that to return back to ‘nature’ in ways similar to our ancestors, drawing from nature to meet our needs, could help us get closer to this ideal. Several attempts try to learn from nature that show us it is now possible to optimize the structure of the building, mechanical system and materials used to improve their energy performance ecologically. The following section will present the biomimicry and his contributions in the field that concerns us today. 3. Biomimicry (Biomimetic Design Strategy) Could Provide Guidelines for Improving Energy Efficiency of Buildings 3.1. Overview Biomimicry—Optimization Strategy from Nature The main force related to the way nature can inspire sustainable design. The term ‘inspire’ means enabling the designer to look for creative design solutions [23]. One source of inspiration comes from the shapes of organisms. The second level of inspiration relates to the manufacturing process that operates in those organisms. At the last level, inspired by the interactions of the species between each other and by the global functioning of natural eco-systems [24]. A conceptual model of biomimicry has further classified the design approaches, which range for a ‘direct’ approach that is a simple mimicking process to an ‘indirect’ which involves more diverse forms of analysis of nature [25]. The question for research is largely a ‘how’ question to use biomimicry in design. One of the major challenges of using biomimetic strategy today is to provide sustainable technologies. To imitate nature solution per se, without an intention to implement nature sustainability design principles, is not a guarantee for sustainability. Seeking nature’s guidance for sustainable models and measures is reasonable and has expanded in recent years. Biological processes operate within restricted living constraints without creating waste; in contrast they enrich and sustain the ecosystems. Nature forms and structures provide a wide range of properties with the minimal use of material or energy and nature systems demonstrate efficient flow of energy and material. Not only nature solutions are distant from technology, but they are also based on a different paradigm [26]. The different is well demonstrated the comparison between design solutions in biology and technology, by the assistance of the TRIZ [27], an acronym in Russian known in English as ‘Theory of inventive problem-solving’. TRIZ based analysis showed that there is only 12% similarity between the principles of solutions in biology and technology. While in technology


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usually energy and materials are being used toinsolve problems, in biology solutions are basedand on materials are being used to solve problems, biology solutions are based on information information and structures [26],Further (Figure 2). Further more, system biology system follows principle structures [26], (Figure 2). more, biology usuallyusually follows the the principle of of multifunctional design.Each Eachcomponent componenthas hasseveral severalfunctions, functions,offering offeringan an elegant elegant and and cost effective multifunctional design. design. follow this principle; in many cases eacheach component has one design. Technological Technologicalsystems systemsnot notalways always follow this principle; in many cases component has or only few functions. one or only few functions.

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Figure 2. 2. (a) (a) The The types types of of problem-solving problem-solving strategies strategies that that human human technology technology employs employs on on different different Figure length scales [26]. Technology tends to function by manipulating energy and substance; (b) Types of of length scales [26]. Technology tends to function by manipulating energy and substance; (b) Types effects observed observedininbiology biology at different length scales [26]. Natural systems to function on effects at different length scales [26]. Natural systems tend totend function on account account of how they are structured and the way information is managed. of how they are structured and the way information is managed.

To explore biomimetic strategies, which challenge this position, we use technology to aid To explore biomimetic strategies, which challenge this position, we use technology to aid designs, designs, which are inspired and work with nature rather than being controlled by technology. which are inspired and work with nature rather than being controlled by technology. Biomimicry has much Biomimicry has much to contribute especially during the concept generation stage with well to contribute especially during the concept generation stage with well understanding of performance understanding of performance optimization in nature. An appropriate sustainability tool for the optimization in nature. An appropriate sustainability tool for the concept design stage maybe derived concept design stage maybe derived from the nature itself, where nature sustainability design from the nature itself, where nature sustainability design principles are identified and gathered as principles are identified and gathered as a tool such as database. We will speak further in Section 5, a tool such as database. We will speak further in Section 5, the research aim/methodology section, as to the research aim/methodology section, as to how we can facilitate biomimicry as a sustainable tool to how we can facilitate biomimicry as a sustainable tool to manage energy consumption in the buildings. manage energy consumption in the buildings. 3.2. Biomimetic Problem-Solving Design Strategies: Comparison between Nature and Architecture 3.2. Biomimetic Problem-Solving Design Strategies: Comparison between Nature and Architecture If we look at all design solutions based from nature and compare with problem-solving If we look at all designdesign, solutions from nature and compare with the problem-solving contradiction in architectural one based can find many commonalities between two domains. contradiction in architectural design, one can find many commonalities between the two domains. For examples, the main purposes for windows are to allow light in and to let you see out and this often For examples, the main purposes for windows are to allow light in and to let you see out and this comes at the expense of their ability to prevent heat transfer. The contradiction is what if the building often comes the inside expense ofattheir ability to prevent heat must transfer. Thetocontradiction is what the requires moreatlight and the same time the building be able control heat gain, howif can building more lightwithin insidethe andsame at the same concept? time the building be the ableperfect to control heat we solve requires this contradiction design Once we must look at solution gain, how can we solve this contradiction within the same design concept? Once we look at the in nature, in general we recognize that plants have many techniques for light harvesting, but what perfect solution in nature, in general we recognize that plants have many techniques for light about one that can also control heat gain. One such example is Fenestraria aurantiaca (also known as harvesting, but what about one that can also control heat gain. One such example is Fenestraria window plant) [28]. Window plants have a similar working principle to fiber optics, it can be found in aurantiaca (also known as window plant) [28]. Window plants have a similar working principle to the deserts of South Africa, they are nearly buried in the sand [29]. The tip of every leaf is transparent: fiber optics, it can be found in the deserts of South Africa, they are nearly buried in the sand [29]. The Light enters here and can travel down the leaf [29]. The plant shown in Figure 3a has only a small tip of every leaf is transparent: Light enters here and can travel down the leaf [29]. The plant shown part of it exposed to the light. The plant absorbs light through an opening at the top, hence the name in Figure 3a has only a small part of it exposed to the light. The plant absorbs light through an ‘window plant’. Fenestraria aurantiaca has specialized adaptations to deal with heat, light and aridity. opening at the top, hence the name ‘window plant’. Fenestraria aurantiaca has specialized The window at the top of the plant is actually a light transparent membrane, light can protrude through adaptations to deal with heat, light and aridity. The window at the top of the plant is actually a light this membrane to reach the lower region of the leave. The mechanisms from Fenestraria aurantiaca not transparent membrane, light can protrude through this membrane to reach the lower region of the only inspire cooling and light collections, but could also provide a feasible solution for architecture leave. The mechanisms from Fenestraria aurantiaca not only inspire cooling and light collections, design. The concept of the window plant can be adapted for building in deserts and very hot regions but could also provide a feasible solution for architecture design. The concept of the window plant (Figure 3b). The light collection combined with cooling effect could open new doors to building design. can be adapted for building in deserts and very hot regions (Figure 3b). The light collection The concept of light collectors has been in existence for a long time and is constantly optimized. combined with cooling effect could open new doors to building design. The concept of light The fact that architectural design itself could provide light collection and cooling, without the need of collectors has been in existence for a long time and is constantly optimized. The fact that additional systems, could result in sustainable building design. architectural design itself could provide light collection and cooling, without the need of additional systems, could result in sustainable building design.


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Figure 3. (a) Fenestraria aurantiaca [28]; (b) a. Abstracted from the build-concept of the stone plant Figure 3. (a) Fenestraria aurantiaca [28]; (b) a. Abstracted from the build-concept of the stone plant Frithia pulchra (Adapted from Tributsch 1995): b. Concept sketch for a desert building [28]. Frithia pulchra (Adapted from Tributsch 1995): b. Concept sketch for a desert building [28].

By using a biomimetic design strategy, as an architect, to be able to automatically know which By using a biomimetic design strategy, an architect, to benature’s able toperfect automatically know which specific plant to look at, to understand theas mechanism behind design and to choose specific plant to look are at, to the mechanism behind nature’s perfect design and to choose what to transfer, notunderstand easy tasks. Either an architect who has long–years experiences working in whatthe to biomimetic transfer, arefield not or easy Eitherananaccess architect who has long–years experiences in onetasks. that have to collaborate with biologists, botanistsworking and share problem-solution commonality between the two with domains. The botanists major concern of the biomimetic field ordesign one that have an access to collaborate biologists, and share discouragement for commonality architects to go for biomimetic strategyThe is because of the of lack of biological problem-solution design between the two domains. major concern discouragement knowledge thebiomimetic lack of accessibility to the correct information. for architects to and go for strategy to is reach because of the lackbiological of biological knowledge and the lack of accessibility to reach to the correct biological information. 3.3. Biomimicry and Energy Efficient Building Design 3.3. Biomimicry Energy Efficient Building Design building, building envelope is the first to count on For theand design concept of an energy-efficient the change, will allow usbuilding, to reducebuilding energy envelope needs by is careful design of the For consumption the design concept of which an energy-efficient the first to count on building envelope. Recently, integrate building envelope is one of the most the consumption change, which will allow biomimetic us to reducedesign energyinneeds by careful design of the building development for energy management the building. Nowadays, are envelope. Recently,tool integrate biomimetic design in in building envelope is one ofbuilding the mostenvelopes development associated with a wide range of innovative technologies that significantly influence, in particular tool for energy management in the building. Nowadays, building envelopes are associated with a wide cases, have a functional role in providing a satisfactory indoor climate for the occupants [30]. range of innovative technologies that significantly influence, in particular cases, have a functional role Technology might be one of the main driving forces to transfer natures’ principles to in providing a satisfactory indoor climate for the occupants [30]. architectural designs. Architecture with aspects of nature has been there longs years from the Technology might be one of the main driving forces to transfer natures’ principles to architectural traditional architectures until the modern ones. However, Biomimetic architectures have been designs. Architecture with aspects of nature has been there longs years from the traditional architectures developed just recently, started from the original concept of Biology + technology [31] intentionally until the modern ones. However, Biomimetic architectures have been developed just recently, started creates more efficient artificial design. Nowadays, with global problems, biomimetic design is fromdeveloping the originaltoconcept of Biology technology [31] intentionally artificial integrate towards +more sustainable concept. To creates reduce more enery efficient consumption in design. Nowadays, with global problems, biomimetic design is developing to integrate towards buildings is not all about re-construction the whole building itself with the most innovative and moreadvanced sustainable concept. To reduce enery consumption buildings isfrequently not all about re-construction technological design possible, as biomimeticinarchitecture is misinterpretated. the whole building theofmost innovative and advanced technological design This is where the itself initial with thought the optimisation’s principle from nature should be aware possible, of. If we as biomimetic architecture frequently misinterpretated. This wheretothe of the the want to imitate an efficient design is from nature, we must notisforget alsoinitial learnthought to imitate optimisation’s principle from nature should be aware of. If we want to imitate an efficient design from process of how nature achieves it. This process is the lesson to reveal all the secret of nature, we must not forget to also learn to imitate the process of make how nature achieves it. architectural This process high-performance design optimisation from nature that can us differ from an There is important to be made between ‘biomimicry’ andnature ‘biomorphism’ is theperspective. lesson to reveal allan the secret ofdistinction high-performance design optimisation from that can as the architects frequently use nature as a source for unconventional forms and for symbolic make us differ from an architectural perspective. There is an important distinction to be made between association. is the ultimate performance-orientated no wonder that attention ‘biomimicry’ andNature ‘biomorphism’ as theinarchitects frequently use design natureso asita issource for unconventional should finally be paid to its processes. Rather just symbolic or form, biomimeticdesign architecture forms and for symbolic association. Nature is thethan ultimate in performance-orientated so it is should be concerned more on aspects of how we process our design and what if our design could be no wonder that attention should finally be paid to its processes. Rather than just symbolic or form, a positive impact to the environment as a whole [32]. biomimetic architecture should be concerned more on aspects of how we process our design and what Although is the perfect model for usastoa learn develop in our man-made if our design could nature be a positive impact design to the environment wholeand [32]. design, to mimic the process of nature is not a trivial task. There are various obstacles to the Although nature is the perfect design model for us to learn and develop in our man-made design, employment of biomimicry methodology in design. One barrier of particular note is the lack of a to mimic the process of nature is not a trivial task. There are various obstacles to the employment clearly defined approach to biomimicry, especially if the goal is to increase the sustainability and of biomimicry methodology in design. One barrier of particular note is the lack of a clearly defined energy consumption. Drawing on the principles of biomimicry in energy-efficient building design approach to biomimicry, especially if the goal is to increase the sustainability and energy consumption.


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Drawing on the principles of biomimicry in energy-efficient building design offers such a path. In order to understand both the urgency and the benefits of using a biomimetic approach to energy-efficient building design, it is first necessary to explore the energy efficiency or effectiveness of7 biological Buildings 2017, 7, 19 of 18 organism and systems at consuming energy. The incentive is that by creating more energy efficient a path. In order understand the urgency and the benefits of using a biomimetic systemoffers and such technologies, and tobegin more both efficient at energy consumption ourselves, we would approach to energy-efficient building design, it is first necessary to explore the energy efficiency require less power, and in turn less fossil fuel is burnt and therefore less GHGs are emittedor into the effectiveness of biological organism and systems at consuming energy. The incentive is that by atmosphere [33]. The objective is to employ biomimicry in the further improvements and developments creating more energy efficient system and technologies, and begin more efficient at energy on existing means of producing, generating or capturing energy to reduce human dependence on consumption ourselves, we would require less power, and in turn less fossil fuel is burnt and fossil fuel that still dominate our energy consumption. Various biomimetic technologies and products therefore less GHGs are emitted into the atmosphere [33]. The objective is to employ biomimicry in have been developed for the purposes of improving energy efficiency. There are numerous the further improvements and developments on existing means of producing, generating examples or capturing energy reduce that human dependence oneffective fossil fuel dominate ourunderstanding energy of living organisms andto systems are highly energy andthat thatstill could yield an Various biomimetic and products have been developed for purposes of howconsumption. humans could build and carrytechnologies out their activities without a dependence on the fossil fuels [34]. of improving energy efficiency. There are numerous examples of living organisms and systems that highly energy effective and that could an understanding of how humans could build and 4. The are Analytical Study of Bioclimatic and yield Biomimetic Design Strategies to Reduce Energy carry out their activities without a dependence on fossil fuels [34]. Consumption in the Building

As4. The we have referred the firstand chapter, humans have always of local Analytical Studyto of in Bioclimatic Biomimetic Design Strategies to taken Reduceadvantage Energy Consumption in the their Building conditions to construct shelter to suit their needs and architecture with aspects of nature. This has been true over the longs years the humans traditional the modern As we have referred to in the firstfrom chapter, havearchitectures always taken until advantage of local ones. The evolving sustainability usearchitecture energy andwith resource and to use conditions to construct approach their sheltertotobuilding suit theiraims needstoand aspectsefficiently, of nature. This has been true over the longs years the traditional architectures until the modern ones.architecture The environmentally friendly outputs. It canfrom be achieved by looking at the relationship between evolving sustainability to building aims to use energy and resource efficiently, andarchitecture). to use and nature from the pastapproach until present (e.g., vernacular architecture, bioclimatic friendly design outputs.principles It can be achieved by looking at theneeds relationship between Using environmentally successful traditional that respond to human and environmental architecture and nature from the past until present (e.g., vernacular architecture, bioclimatic conditions combined with advance modern science and technologies where natural strategies can be architecture). Using successful traditional design principles that respond to human needs and applied directly to the designcombined construction its process This approach may lead to environmental conditions with and advance modern (biomimicry). science and technologies where natural functional design solutions that interact with the environment, where technology becomes integral strategies can be applied directly to the design construction and its process (biomimicry). an This part ofapproach the environment as well [35]. This includes evaluating the main similarities and the driving may lead to functional design solutions that interact with the environment, where technology becomes an integral part of the environment as well [35]. This includes evaluating the forces that affect nature and the architectural design process [36]. We introduce an analytic study for main similarities and the driving forces that affect nature and with the architectural design process [36]. two examples: one shows bioclimatic design in comparison biomimetic design in objective to We introduce an analytic study for two examples: one shows bioclimatic design in comparison with reduce energy consumption focusing on technique and strategies applied. biomimetic design in objective to reduce energy consumption focusing on technique and strategies applied. Architecture Approach: The Cooling and Heating Design-Strategy 4.1. Bioclimatic

4.1. Bioclimatic Architectureis Approach: and Heating which Design-Strategy Bioclimatic architecture definedThe asCooling an architecture, has a connection with nature; it is about a building thatarchitecture takes into isaccount climate and environmental conditions to favor thermal Bioclimatic defined the as an architecture, which has a connection with nature; it is comfort inside [37]. This seeks betweenconditions design and natural elements about a building that architecture takes into account theperfect climate cohesion and environmental to favor thermal comfort inside [37].rain This and architecture seeks perfect design and natural elements (such as the sun, wind, vegetation), leadingcohesion us to anbetween optimization of resources. Bioclimatic (such as the sun, wind, rain and vegetation), leading us to an optimization of resources. Bioclimatic designs take into account climate and environmental conditions to help achieve optimal thermal designs take into account climate and environmental conditions to help achieve optimal thermal comfort inside. It deals with design and architectural elements, avoiding complete dependence on comfort inside. It deals with design and architectural elements, avoiding complete dependence on mechanical systems, which are regarded as support. A good example of this is using natural ventilation mechanical systems, which are regarded as support. A good example of this is using natural or mixed mode ventilation (Figure 4). (Figure 4). ventilation or mixed mode ventilation

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(b)

Figure 4. (a) The cooling strategy, reduce calorie intake and promote refreshment; (b) The heating strategy promotes free heat gains and reduces thermal experts, while allowing sufficient air renewal [37].

Figure 4. (a) The cooling strategy, reduce calorie intake and promote refreshment; (b) The heating strategy promotes free heat gains and reduces thermal experts, while allowing sufficient air renewal [37].

The purpose of Bioclimatic design is to reduce the energy consumption rate required to operate Buildings 2017, 7, 19 8 of 18 a building while enhancing the quality and comfort of the indoor environment for occupants. For example, to provide comfort during the summer requires a cooling strategy: protection from direct The purpose of Bioclimatic design is togain, reduce the energy consumption rate required to operate solar gain and glare, minimizing heat dissipating solar heat gain and cooling naturally. a building while enhancing the quality and comfort of the indoor environment for occupants. Comfort in the winter requires a heating strategy: Utilizing solar gain, storing it in thermal mass, For example, to provide comfort during the summer requires a cooling strategy: protection from retaining heat through insulation and transmitting it throughout the building. direct solar gain and glare, minimizing heat gain, dissipating solar heat gain and cooling naturally. Designing with nature means accounting for multi-seasonal considerations, for example, Comfort in the winter requires a heating strategy: Utilizing solar gain, storing it in thermal mass, reducing needs with maximum sunlight from Southern oriented windows. If these retainingheating heat through insulation and transmitting it throughout the building. techniques have worked for generations in these communities designed geographic Designing with nature means accounting for multi-seasonal considerations,for fortheir example, reducingregion, then clearly modern design could benefit from carefuloriented integration of these traditional principles. heating needs with maximum sunlight from Southern windows. If these techniques have It is entirely to design modern bioclimatic housing and architecture, natural ventilation, workedpossible for generations in these communities designed for their geographic region,using then clearly modern designsolar could design, benefit from careful integration thesemany traditional principles. It is site-specific entirely possible to passive sustainable materials,of and other traditional techniques. design modern bioclimatic housing and architecture, using natural ventilation, passive solartodesign, Bioclimatic architecture deals exclusively with traditional building design accounting climate and sustainable materials, and many other traditional site-specific techniques. Bioclimatic architecture environmental conditions, but it works at different scales to the concept of biomimicry, in which dealsis exclusively with building design accounting to climate environmental conditions, nature the mentor fortraditional the concept of the design and its process asand shown with the analysis study of but it works at different scales to the concept of biomimicry, in which nature is the mentor for the the termite mound and the penguin feather. concept of the design and its process as shown with the analysis study of the termite mound and the penguin feather.

4.1.1. The Architecture of Termite Mound: Auto Cooling-Heating System with Ventilation and Air Exchange 4.1.1. TheManagement Architecture of Termite Mound: Auto Cooling-Heating System with Ventilation and Air Exchange Management

The remarkable architecture of termite mound teaches us many lessons how to construct a high The remarkable of termite mound almost teaches us many lessons how toWhat construct highclimate performance building,architecture it keeps the temperature constant at all time. evera the performance building, it keeps the temperature almost constant at all time. What ever the climate outside would be, inside the mound is always stably 87◦ F° [38]. Termite mound is an efficiency outside would be, inside the mound is always stably 87 F [38]. Termite mound is an efficiency ventilation device. If the termites were the same size as us, their mound would have been the size of ventilation device. If the termites were the same size as us, their mound would have been the size of Empire state building. They teach architects to design super-efficient skyscrapers. Inside the mound Empire state building. They teach architects to design super-efficient skyscrapers. Inside the mound is is an anextensive extensive system of tunnels and that conduits serves assystem a ventilation system for the system of tunnels and conduits serves that as a ventilation for the underground underground Ingood order to get good termites will construct several shafts nest. In ordernest. to get ventilation, theventilation, termites willthe construct several shafts leading down to theleading down to the cellar located beneath the nest. The mound is built above the subterranean cellar located beneath the nest. The mound is built above the subterranean nest. The nest itselfnest. is The nest itself is astructure spheroidal structure consisting of numerous gallery chambers. The termites a spheroidal consisting of numerous gallery chambers. The termites create channels inside create throughinside the wall that it can Weitlearn from theWe termites improve our design that the walls channels through the breath. wall that can breath. learn to from the termites to improve our design should work as membranes to breath rather than barriers [38]. that the walls should work as membranes to breath rather than barriers [38]. TheEastgate Eastgate Centre, Centre, Harare, has optimized the the ventilation of theofbuilding, the The Harare, Mick MickPearce Pearce has optimized ventilation the building, the architect found inspiration in termites’ mounds (Figure 5). Their structure responds to external air architect found inspiration in termites’ mounds (Figure 5). Their structure responds to external air movements and humidity in order to keep the interior cool. Although the result shows 90% reduction movements and humidity in order to keep the interior cool. Although the result shows 90% of energy required for air-conditioning compared to building of the same size. Remarkably, these reduction of energy required for air-conditioning compared to building of the same size. designs are still based upon an erroneous conception of how termite mounds actually work. If we Remarkably, these designs are still based upon an erroneous conception how termite mounds could arise from this better understanding in the structure and function of termiteofmounds, we could actually If wefor could arise from better understanding in the structure and function of create awork. new outline biomimetic designthis concept in the future. termite mounds, we could create a new outline for biomimetic design concept in the future.

(a)

(b)

Figure termite mound [38]; Eastgate Centre, Figure5.5.(a) (a)The The architecture architecture ofoftermite mound [38]; (b) (b) TheThe Eastgate Centre, HarareHarare [39]. [39].


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4.2. Passive Mechanism for Thermal Comfort: Double Wall and Biomimetic Insulation (Penguin Feather) 4.2. Passive Mechanism for Thermal Comfort: Double Wall Biomimetic Appropriate design of building insulation canand facilitate heatInsulation retention(Penguin during Feather) winters and prevent ingress of heat during summers. One of the finest examples of insulators for heat retention Appropriate design of building insulation can facilitate heat retention during winters and preventis the feather of the Gentoo Penguins (Pygoscelis papua) from Antarctica [40]for (Figure 6). According ingress of heat during summers. One of the finest examples of insulators heat retention is theto the anatomy of the penguins, maximum insulation is achieved due to the closely packed feather of the Gentoo Penguins (Pygoscelis papua) from Antarctica [40] (Figure 6). According to the arrangement the feather on the body of theis penguin, minimize very well thearrangement heat lost. Thus, anatomy of theof penguins, maximum insulation achieved it due to the closely packed of creating thermal model based on the penguin’s feather follows principle. The biomimetic the feathera on the body of the penguin, it minimize very well the this heatmain lost. Thus, creating a thermal material based arrangement of the penguin feather is tested on main façade insteadbased of the model based on on thethe penguin’s feather follows this main principle. Thethe biomimetic material double wall in building [41]. The comparison of results building withwall double on the arrangement of the simulation penguin feather is tested on the main façadebetween instead of the double in wall façade and with biomimetic façade material thatbuilding through with the biomimetic material, very building simulation [41]. The comparison of resultsshows between double wall façade and minimum heat loss occurs fromshows the building fabric the in winter but inmaterial, summer very the building is heat more with biomimetic façade material that through biomimetic minimum airtight. terms comfort fabric during thein biomimetic façade material is able to produce more loss occursInfrom theofbuilding inwinters, winter but summer the building is more airtight. In terms of comfortable conditions than the double wall system. This is because of the insulation quality of the comfort during winters, the biomimetic façade material is able to produce more comfortable conditions façade material that retains the heat in the interiors. Comparing energy-efficiency with the energy than the double wall system. This is because of the insulation quality of the façade material that retains required for interiors. heating, Comparing biomimetic energy-efficiency façade material with requires only half of the the heat in the the energy required forheating heating,consumption biomimetic compared to the double wall façade. Whereas during summers, the double wall system able to façade material requires only half of the heating consumption compared to the double wallisfaçade. deliver during more comfortable conditions than the building biomimetic façade material. Whereas summers, the double wall system is able to with deliver more comfortable conditionsThis thanis because thewith double wall can façade delay the ingressThis of the heat in the duecan to air gapthe in the façade. the building biomimetic material. is because the interiors double wall delay ingress of Hence, the biomimetic façade material is more efficient during winter period [41]. This analysis will the heat in the interiors due to air gap in the façade. Hence, the biomimetic façade material is more be usedduring as an example of penguin as biomimetic strategy toexample test multi-criteria requirements efficient winter period [41]. feather This analysis will be used as an of penguin feather as and result with the investigating tool in Section 5. biomimetic strategy to test multi-criteria requirements and result with the investigating tool in Section 5.

(a)

(b)

Figure 6. (a) Feather structure of penguin [41]; (b) Feather distribution on penguin [41]. Figure 6. (a) Feather structure of penguin [41]; (b) Feather distribution on penguin [41].

Comparison of results show that the building with biomimetic façade cladding material, Comparison results show the building with biomimetic façade cladding material, inspired inspired by the of structure of thethat penguin feather, is better comfort during winter. The biomimetic by the structure of the penguin feather, is better comfort during winter. The biomimetic façade produce façade produce more efficient winter heating than summer cooling. Biomimetic design is not always more efficient winter than summer design is not always the In best solution the best solution forheating the thermal comfortcooling. unless Biomimetic we are aware of specific criterion. the case of for the thermal comfort wethat are aware of specific criterion. In the casehas of biomimetic façade, it isof biomimetic façade, it isunless certain appropriate emulation from nature enables construction certain that materials appropriate emulation from nature has enables construction of effective that can effective that can address the energy issues of a building, but materials it is specifically address the energy issues of a building, but it is specifically recommended only for heavy construction recommended only for heavy construction in extreme cold weather because of its superior insulation inquality extreme cold weather because of its superior insulation quality and fabric performance. and fabric performance. Biomimetic Biomimeticdesign designcould couldbe beaafavorite favoriteininthe theright rightplace placewhere wherenature natureisisthe thementor mentorfor forthe the concept of the design, using efficient overall structural forms, functions and how to manufacture concept of the design, using efficient overall structural forms, functions and how to manufacture materials the analytic analytic study, study, although although nature nature is is a materialstotoemploy employthe thedesign designto tomaximum maximum effect effect [42]. [42]. After After the a potential potential source source of of inspiration inspiration for for creating creating energy-efficient energy-efficientstructure structurebut butititdepends dependson onmulti-criteria multi-criteria requirements such as climate classification, environmental factors, material used, type construction requirements such as climate classification, environmental factors, material of used, type of and etc. The value and relevance of using nature as a model in the context of the design of construction and etc. The value and relevance of using nature as a model in the context of the design energy-efficient buildings is proven, difficulty, and size, nevertheless persists, to the architects, who do of energy-efficient buildings is proven, difficulty, and size, nevertheless persists, to the architects, not familiar biological process, unless in unless a research or prospecting. This stateThis of who do notwith familiar with biological process, in a perspective research perspective or prospecting. state of affairs is due to ignorance and/or the fact that much of the architects relegate biomimicry to a


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affairs is due to ignorance and/or the fact that much of the architects relegate biomimicry to a level of research “utopian” perspective view. The question at this point of our work is that to say, how can we do to that architects go a little more “spontaneously” and/or more “naturally” to this type of approach? This would facilitate the one hand, their initiation Biomimetics demonstrating and Buildings 2017, 7, 19 10 of 18 making available its interest by examples from the architecture (and in terms of what they know) and, secondly,level the of inspiration or exploitation of view. biomimicry in their work. goal, we suggest research “utopian” perspective The question at this pointTo of achieve our workthis is that to say, how can webiological do to that architects go a little more “spontaneously” and/or more “naturally” this to formalizer the and architecture knowledge, within a virtual platformto(computing) type of approach? This would facilitate the one hand, their initiation Biomimetics demonstrating and collaborating between biologists and architects, where biologists feed biological information into making available its interest by examples from the architecture (and in terms of what they know) the database and facilitate by investigative tools to bridge with architectural design concept. In this and, secondly, the inspiration or exploitation of biomimicry in their work. To achieve this goal, we article, asuggest decision on Bayesian networks is hypothetically chosen for testing the to support formalizertool thebased biological and architecture knowledge, within a virtual platform rapid result, between the choice between of natural devicesand impact on various in specific case study, (computing) collaborating biologists architects, where criterions biologists feed biological information databasemode and facilitate investigative tools to bridge with architectural design which we describe into the the operating in theby following section. concept. In this article, a decision support tool based on Bayesian networks is hypothetically chosen for testing rapid result, between choice of natural devices impact on various criterions in 5. A Platform andthe Investigative Tool fortheIntegrating Biomimetic Strategies in Serving specific case study, which we describe the operating mode in the following section. Energy-Efficient Building Design A Platform Investigative Tool for Integrating Strategies in Serving The5.goal of this and study is to create a tool to search Biomimetic for and bridge the relationship between natural Energy-Efficient Building Design devices and architecture. We propose to create a platform to formalize the knowledge between biology The goal of this study is to create atools tool to search for architects and bridge what the relationship between and architecture along with investigating that assist biomimetic strategies to natural devices and architecture. We propose to create a platform to formalize the knowledge choose and to explore further according to multi-criteria requirements (e.g., type of operation, structure, between biology and architecture along with investigating tools that assist architects what scale, climate classification, time, comfort summer or winter, etc.). Furthermore, the platform of the biomimetic strategies to choose and to explore further according to multi-criteria requirements (e.g., tool willtype helpof to save time during initial stage of exchanging knowledge between biologists and operation, structure, scale, climate classification, time, comfort summer or winter, etc.). architects, as the toolthe can help tooffind the link between thetime twoduring domains to their common Furthermore, platform the tool will help to save initialaccording stage of exchanging knowledge between biologistsinteracting and architects, as the toolenvironmental can help to find conditions the link between two the role design concepts and phenomena with their [43].the While domains according to their common design concepts and phenomena interacting with their of biologists is to feed the database on biological knowledge and the role of architects is to feed environmental conditions [43]. While the role of biologists is to feed the database on biological the architectural design knowledge in parallel (Figure 7). After formalizing the relationship of the knowledge and the role of architects is to feed the architectural design knowledge in parallel (Figure two domains, multi-criteria choice assistance andtwo decision-making tool could be assistance introduced according 7). After formalizing the relationship of the domains, multi-criteria choice and to specificity in each project. In this article, we have hypothetically Bayesian network as decision-making tool could be introduced according to specificity in suggested each project.the In this article, we hypothetically the Bayesian network as a testing result in serving energy-efficient a testinghave result in serving suggested energy-efficient building design. building design.

Figure 7. An example of a small network within a data analysis platform (computing) searches and formalizes the relationship knowledge between biology and architecture.


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Figure 7. An example of a small network within a data analysis platform (computing) searches and

5.1. Presentation of the the relationship Tool formalizes knowledge between biology and architecture.

This tool is designed to guide architects and engineers, or other building actors. It is both 5.1. Presentation of the Tool an information investigating tool and an aid in selecting the most appropriate strategies of nature This tool designed toof guide architects or other with building actors.performance It is both an and to the needs andisspecificity a project, alland thisengineers, in connection energy information investigating tool and an aid in selecting the most appropriate strategies of nature to the optimizing suit specific needs, special features and characteristics of each project. This tool will enable needs and specificity of a project, all this in connection with energy performance and optimizing suit building professionals to learn about biomimicry, what are the known strategies and an applicable specific needs, special features and characteristics of each project. This tool will enable building implementation of the building from an energy point of view. Secondly, it would allow them, during professionals to learn about biomimicry, what are the known strategies and an applicable the design process, from data they of their project toSecondly, define strategies and could implementation of thethe building from have an energy point of view. it would from allow nature them, during be a potential inspiration to optimize their design in order to reach their goal of energy the design process, from the data they have of their project to define strategies from natureefficiency, and optimal way of cost in materials, embodied (all evaluation criteria specified could beina terms potential inspiration to optimize theirenergy, design etc. in order to reach their goalwill of be energy during the design of the tool). The of proposals made by this toolenergy, could be to different efficiency, optimal way in terms cost in materials, embodied etc.applied (all evaluation criterialevels will be specified during the design of the tool). The proposals made by this tool could be applied to of the project, namely: (1) the development of an innovative material; (2) specification of project different levels of the project, namely: (1) the development of an innovative material; (2) components such as a front portion and; (3) part of a broader strategy that would be part of the specification of project components such as a front portion and; (3) part of a broader strategy that envelope, for example. would be part of the envelope, for example. To do this, we propose a tool in which structure would be as follows (see Figure 8): initially the To do this, we propose a tool in which structure would be as follows (see Figure 8): initially the architect, for example, should integrate through an interface, project-related input data and natural architect, for example, should integrate through an interface, project-related input data and natural devices that that wish to be treated. These feedingaamulti-criteria multi-criteria assessment that we devices wish to be treated. Theseinputs inputs allow allow feeding assessment tool tool that we produce output options that can offer kindof ofstrategies strategies form nature constraints produce output options that can offerone oneor ormore more kind form nature andand constraints to to their their adoption. For each biomimetic design strategy, a data sheet describing the natural role model’s adoption. For each biomimetic design strategy, a data sheet describing the natural role model’s information, examples operatingpotential potential in the would be be accessible in a database, information, examples or or operating the building buildingthat that would accessible in a database, fueled by question the question experts.This Thisdatabase database will strategies that that can be fueled by the of of experts. will integrate integratethe thedifferent different strategies can be associated elementofofnature. nature. Each Each one information on the phenomena, a associated withwith an an element onecontains contains information on natural the natural phenomena, system diagram drawing (our architectural drafting-drawing to abstract natures’ principles), a system diagram drawing (our architectural drafting-drawing to abstract natures’ principles), references, references, contacts of scientific experts and case studies (where the strategies have already been contacts of scientific experts and case studies (where the strategies have already been applied). applied).

A rch itect

In terface

H elp in ch o o sin g m u lticriteria b io m im etic system s at th e service o f d esig n E E B

B io m im etic strateg ies D ata b ase

B ayesian N etw o rk

The criteria inputs:

Listofstrategies from nature:

-The clim ate (hot-cold) -The devices (insulation,solar protection ...) -O peration (adaptive,fixed ...) -Type ofbuilding etc.

-Penguin feather:Insulation -File snake skin:protecting from dehydration -Term ite m ound:Auto cooling-heating system w ith ventilation etc.

D escrip tive D ata Sh eets fo r n atu ral d evices

Figure 8. Presentation of of the tool,which which support architects to use Figure 8. Presentation thestructure structure of of investigating investigating tool, cancan support architects to use biomimetic strategies in more applicable biomimetic strategies in more applicableway. way.

In order to achieve this, we will use the biomimetic case from the platform that formalize In order to achieve this, we will use the biomimetic case from the platform that formalize already already the relationship between nature device and architectural design/elements then we must; the relationship between nature device and architectural design/elements then we must;

1.

Identify inputs: a.

Identify the needs of architects in terms of optimization and development of solutions (passive system, adaptation system, structure, material, etc.)


1.

Identify inputs:


a. b. b. 2. 2.

3.

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Identify the needs of architects in terms of optimization and development of solutions (passive system, adaptation system, structure, material, etc.) Identifythe thefactors factorsthat thatinteract interactwith withthis thissystem system(climate (climateclassification, classification, type type of of operation, operation, Identify constraint, objectives, etc.) constraint, objectives, etc.)

Identify outputs: outputs: Identify Identify strategies strategies from from nature nature that that could could be be useful useful in in the the design Identify design of of energy-efficient building. After we design the tool and construct the network, we offer an open energy-efficient building. After we design the tool and construct the network, we offer an open system where architects could incorporate usefuluseful knowledge and working together system wherescientists scientistsand and architects could incorporate knowledge and working on biomimetic project. project. together on biomimetic Implement the tool: This This tool tool should should help help connect connect the the needs of the architect in terms of Implement the tool: innovative design related reduce energy consumption in innovative related to to nature’s nature’sstrategies strategies(in (inthis thisarticle articleisistoto reduce energy consumption buildings) taking into account the project type of project, in buildings) taking into account the context project (environment, context (environment, type its of morphology, project, its its occupants, its etc.) the projectetc.) could the following form 8). The implementation of morphology, occupants, thetake project could take the(Figure following form (Figure 8). The the multi-criteriaofassessment tool willassessment be hypothetically based on Bayesian networks, can implementation the multi-criteria tool will be hypothetically based onwhich Bayesian rapidly present the results in the following section. networks, which can rapidly present the results in the following section.

5.2. 5.2. Bayesian Bayesian Network Network (BN), (BN), Investigating Investigating and and Decision-Making Decision-Making Aid Aid Tool Tool For the hypothesis hypothesis of of the theinvestigative investigativetool toolwe wepropose proposeBayesian BayesianNetworks Networks (BN), it seems For the (BN), asas it seems to to us adapted the complexity in which we are confronted. Bayesian network is based on Bayes’ us adapted the complexity in which we are confronted. Bayesian network is based on Bayes’ theorem, theorem, which which is is based based on on the the conditional conditional probability. probability. The The Bayesian Bayesian networks networks are are generally generally used used to to represent a cause to effects reasoning [44]. They are adapted to decision-making aid tools, and used for represent a cause to effects reasoning [44]. They are adapted to decision-making aid tools, and used different applications: riskrisk management, finance, medical domain, etc.etc. AsAs presented in in thethe Figure 9, for different applications: management, finance, medical domain, presented Figure a9,Bayesian network is a graphical model in which knowledge is represented as variables. Each variable a Bayesian network is a graphical model in which knowledge is represented as variables. Each is represented by a node in the graph (as a qualitative representation) and has different variable is represented by a node in the graph (as a qualitative representation) and has attribute different (or stat). (or Thestat). relationship betweenbetween causes and effects are translated by directed arrows that link attribute The relationship causes and effects are translated by directed arrows that these nodes. The quantification of the effect that can have the causes is represented in a conditional link these nodes. The quantification of the effect that can have the causes is represented in a probability (Figuretable 9). (Figure 9). conditionaltable probability

Figure 9.9.Implementation Implementationofof a Bayesian network; (a) Filled Informations conditional probability Figure a Bayesian network; (a) Filled Informations conditional probability tables; tables; (b) Graphic description Bayesian network interface (b) Graphic description model. model. Bayesian network interface HUGINHUGIN [45]. [45].


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The first interest of proposing the Bayesian network is that it could be used in domains where The first interest of proposing the Bayesian network is that it could be used in domains where knowledge is not explicit and difficult to control. A Bayesian network permits identification of the knowledge is not explicit and difficult to control. A Bayesian network permits identification of the relationships between pieces of information about the project that could appear independently [46] relationships between pieces of information about the project that could appear independently [46] as as the relation between type of users and energy performance [47] (Figure 9). The second interest of the relation between type of users and energy performance [47] (Figure 9). The second interest of the the BN is that it can be used in the two directions: from effects to cause (information given, Figure 10) BN is that it can be used in the two directions: from effects to cause (information given, Figure 10) and and from causes to effects (decision-making aid, Figure 11). Thus, it is possible to evaluate the effects from causes (decision-making aid,ofFigure Thus, possible to evaluate the11. effects of of causes orto toeffects find out the possible causes a given11). effect. To it beisshown in Figures 10 and causesWe or to find out the possible causes of a given effect. To be shown in Figures 10 and 11. propose presenting how the tool will run through this small network (Figures 10 and 11). We propose presenting how figures the toolconsists will runofthrough network (Figures and 11). The network presented in these 7 nodesthis (or small variables). It will help to10identify The network presented in these figures consists of 7 nodes (or variables). It will help to identify ventilation and insulation strategies from nature (2 nodes), which respond to particular indications ventilation and insulation strategies natureon (2 three nodes), which particular indications or constraints. These responses willfrom be based nodes of respond inputtedtoinformation: the type ofor constraints. responses will beand basedthe on three of inputted information: the type of operation, operation, These the design strategy type nodes of structure. It will also provide guidance or the design strategy and the type of structure. It will also provide guidance or against-indications related against-indications related to comfort, summer and winter (two nodes). These nodes are connected, tocause comfort, and winter (two nodes).Indeed, These ifnodes are the connected, cause and effect, through and summer effect, through directed arrows. we take case of identifying an insulation directed Indeed, we take the case of identifying an insulation strategy for example, we know strategyarrows. for example, weifknow that the choice of type of insulation inspired by nature depending on that choice of type of(renovation insulation inspired nature depending on the type thethe type of operation or new by construction) and robustness of of theoperation structure.(renovation We also orknow new construction) and of or thenot structure. We also know that this choice can be that this choice canrobustness be adapted to the summer/winter comfort, depending onadapted the case.or Each node representing acomfort, variabledepending that can have attributes (or states): avariable not to the summer/winter on themultiple case. Each node representing variablecomfort that can summer, for attributes example, has two states: positive (Yes)summer, or negative (No), thehas probability being have multiple (or states): variable comfort for example, two states:ofpositive checked is varied from 0% to 100%. This network can be used from top to bottom, or from bottom to (Yes) or negative (No), the probability of being checked is varied from 0% to 100%. This network can as follows: betop used from top to bottom, or from bottom to top as follows:

5.2.1. Suitable Multi-Criteria Multi-CriteriaRequirements Requirements 5.2.1.Information InformationGiven GivenTool: Tool:Exploring Exploring Nature Nature Strategy Strategy to Suitable Thespread spreadupwards upwards(exploring (exploringnature naturestrategy strategytotomulti-criteria multi-criteriarequirements) requirements)will willallow allowusers usersof The of tool the totool to extract, from the Bayesian information areas of(climate relevance (climate the extract, from the Bayesian network,network, information on areas ofonrelevance classification, classification, strategy, type ofconstruction architectural and construction and nature etc.) to strategy use nature strategy andto design strategy,design type of architectural etc.) to use and possibly possibly to learn about the constraints of these strategies, or problems they can create for other learn about the constraints of these strategies, or problems they can create for other positions. Such as positions. as us theabout BN will inform about the fact that thisfor strategy effective forcan winter the BN will Such inform the fact thatus this strategy is effective winter is comfort and cause comfort and can cause problems in the summer comfort. problems in the summer comfort.

(a) Figure 10. Cont.


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(b) Figure 10. Information given tool: exploring nature strategy to suitable multi-criteria requirements (a) Figure 10. Information given tool: exploring nature strategy to suitable multi-criteria requirements Potential use of Giraffe skin as natural insulation strategy; (b) Potential use of Prairie dog as natural (a) Potential use of Giraffe skin as natural insulation strategy; (b) Potential use of Prairie dog as ventilation. natural ventilation.

Asshown shownininFigure Figure10; 10; As (a) Choosing giraffe as insulation strategy from nature (100%), the information shows that it is (a) Choosing insulation strategy from nature (100%),building the information shows thatwith it is heat better better to giraffe developasthis strategy with an already existing (70%), integrates to develop this strategy with an already existing building (70%), integrates with heat insulation insulation design-system to release the heat out (66.67%) and regard to type of structure, it design-system to release heat outstructural (66.67%) and regard type ofequally structure, it works bothalso with works both with light the or heavy building (asto show 50%). The BN light or heavy structural building (as show equally 50%). The BN also informed us about the fact informed us about the fact that this strategy is highly effective for summer comfort (Yes: 100%) that this strategy is highly effective for summer comfort (Yes: 100%) but not for winter comfort but not for winter comfort (No: 100%). 100%).Prairie dog as ventilation strategy from nature, the information shows that it is better (b) (No: Choosing (b) Choosing Prairie dog as ventilation strategy from building nature, the information shows that it is better to develop the strategy with an already existing (55.8%), integrates with ventilation design-system (41.18%) with and itanworks better with building heavy structural (55.8%). The final to develop the strategy already existing (55.8%),building integrates with ventilation alert shows that this strategy worksbetter both with for summer and winter comfort (as show equally design-system (41.18%) and it works heavy structural building (55.8%). The final alert 50%). that this strategy works both for summer and winter comfort (as show equally 50%). shows 5.2.2. Decision-Making Aid Tool: Selecting Nature Strategy According to Multi-Criteria 5.2.2. Decision-Making Aid Tool: Selecting Nature Strategy According to Multi-Criteria Requirements Requirements The down (multi-criteria requirements select biomimetic strategy that isthat mostissuitable Thespread spreadupup down (multi-criteria requirements select biomimetic strategy most tosuitable elaborate further) allows users to identify a strategy from nature, which best suits to meet a particular to elaborate further) allows users to identify a strategy from nature, which best suits to meet needs and to avoid or difficulties incompatibilities that these strategies can strategies have withcan other concerns, a particular needs difficulties and to avoid or incompatibilities that these have with comfort, for example (all infor 100%). We can theWe input which are other concerns, comfort, example (all identify in 100%). canselection identify proposed the input attributes, selection proposed attributes, are both design and other information strategies such as or structural constraints or both design which and other information strategies such as structural constraints type of operation. typeInofthe operation. case presented in Figure 11 below, the inputs are the following: In the case presented in Figure 11 below, the inputs are the following: 1. Type of operation is “new construction/renovation” 1. Type of operation is “new construction/renovation” 2. Design strategy is “summer or winter insulation/ventilation” 2. Design strategy is “summer or winter insulation/ventilation” 3. Type of structure is “heavy/light”. 3. Type of structure is “heavy/light”.


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(a)

(b) Figure 11. Decision-making aid tool: selecting nature strategy according to multi-criteria Figure 11. Decision-making aid tool: selecting nature strategy according to multi-criteria requirements requirements (a) What nature strategy is the most appropriate for winter insulation with new (a) What nature strategy is the most appropriate for winter insulation with new construction and construction and a heavy structure? (Penguin Feather 100%); (b) What nature strategy is the most a heavy structure? (Penguin Feather 100%); (b) What nature strategy is the most relevant for natural relevant for natural ventilation in new construction and a lightweight structure? (Termite mound ventilation in new construction and a lightweight structure? (Termite mound 80%). 80%).

As shown in Figure 11: As shown in Figure 11: (a) We specific the requirements of the project (multi-criteria) that we need a strategy from nature, (a) We specific requirements of the project (multi-criteria) weofneed a strategy which is forthe winter insulation design, with new buildingthat type operation andfrom withnature, heavy which is for insulation with new of operation with heavy structure (allwinter in 100%). The BNdesign, tool suggests thatbuilding the besttype insulation strategyand from nature to structure (all in 100%). The BN tool suggests that the best insulation strategy from nature to explore in this project context is from the Penguin Feather (100%). The final alert, it is precisely explore in this project context is from the Penguin Feather (100%). The final alert, it is precisely


(b)

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recommended to use this strategy for winter comfort (Yes: 100%) and it might pose problem for summer comfort (No: 100%). We specific the requirements of the project (multi-criteria) that we need a strategy from nature, which is for ventilation design-system, with new building type of operation and with light structure (all in 100%). The BN tool suggests that the best ventilation strategy from nature to explore in this project context is from the Termite mound (80%). The final alert shows that this strategy works both for summer and winter comfort (as show equally 50%)

Another interest of BN is the possibility of learning process that can be done on two levels: to perfect the graphic model (relationship of variables (criterions)), and to supply the tables of probability with the most relevant resulting. Indeed, this possibility would allow us to refine our tool incorporating with the multidiscipline expertise of scientists, biologists and architects to upgrade the information and to complete the model by identifying relationships between natures’ principles and multi-criteria of the architectural design project. Furthermore, the BN can help to save time along with cognitive learning process to search for new strategy from nature by the AI algorithms used (learning and inference). This uncertainty can be due to imperfect understanding of the domain, incomplete knowledge of the state of the domain at the time where given a task is to be performed. To construct network of the tool is a genuine multidisciplinary work. Therefore, it allows experts from different fields to work together during the process of feeding the probability tables (based on knowledge and facts) and building graphic model relationships between variables (criterions). 6. Future Development for the Project We intend to continue further these research studies in a multidisciplinary project. To construct this investigating tool at the initial stage, it is necessary to associate between cross-organization experts from biologists, architects, builders, data processors, etc., to feed and exchange knowledge and facts based on related disciplines. After we construct the tool, we will test with numbers of project implementation on energy-efficient design, we will measure with the time-saving, learning process and effective of choice assistance of nature’s strategy, according to multi-criteria requirements. The initial stage is to formalize the relationship knowledge between nature devices and architectural design concepts. Thus, we can create a biomimetic case within the database for further investigation according to multi-criteria and specificity of each project implementation. For creating the BBD (biomimetic case database), we will cooperate with CEEBIOS (Centre Européen d’Excellence en Biomimétisme de Senlis) [48], as they have access to biological information according to biomimetic design needs. We will combine their biological information with our architectural design concept, drawing the problem-solving design of each nature’s principal to fit in to architectural design implementation. Acknowledgments: Many thanks to François Guéna for the academic support and comments of this article. Author Contributions: Natasha Chayaamor-Heil and Nazila Hannachi-Belkadi drafted the manuscript and design concept of study; Natasha Chayaamor-Heil analyzed and interpreted platform relationship between biology and architecture; Nazila Hannachi-Belkadi presented The Bayesian network tool. Natasha Chayaamor-Heil and Nazila Hannachi-Belkadi approved of the version of the manuscript to be published. Conflicts of Interest: The authors declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

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