HEATWAVE: Empathy for the HVAC ….a gamified virtual reality experiment

Join us for HEATWAVE, an innovative research project conducted by Portland State University’s Research-based Design Initiative, Bynum Laboratories and Opsis Architecture.

The relationship between people and the control systems in a building is a critical factor in overall building energy performance. Thoughtfully designed passive systems are ineffective unless operated as intended, resulting in a performance gap between predicted energy consumption and actual energy use. Inspired by the need to have better “behaved” occupants, the team embarked on a research project to study how gamified virtual reality could build upon the user’s emotional relationship with a space, improving their ability and desire to effectively utilize passive and advanced systems such as shades, ceiling fans, lighting controls, and operable windows.

This event features an opportunity to play HEATWAVE, enjoy refreshments, and engage in lively discussion about the future of VR in design as we move beyond basic visualization.