Multifunctional experimental module using a Smart Living Lab facade prototype developed by the general contractor

The thermal envelope is a key design element of the Smart Living Lab building, not only because of the role it plays in achieving net-zero environmental targets, but also because it enables the implementation of scientific studies and real-life experiments. The findings of the study will benefit the construction industry specifically and the built environment generally.

Measure E.6.1 of the canton of Fribourg's climate plan ('Energy and buildings' heading in the 'Mitigation' section) provides for the construction of a 1:1 experimental module thermally controlled and pivotable environment, including functionalities and innovations foreseen by the Smart Living Lab. The module is currently at the design stage and will be monitored in real time to enable scientific studies and experiments to be performed under real-life conditions.

This work will focus on the following areas:
1) airtightness and thermal insulation
2) modularity, prefabrication and reuse potential
3) materiality (embodied energy, composition of the thermal envelope and energy generation, thermal inertia and passive strategies)
4) dismantling
5) indoor comfort and building-user interaction (MCR)
6) monitoring and connection with digital models (BIM)

The Building2050 Group developed this pilot project in close collaboration with the ENERGY Institute of HEIA-FR.