In the framework of a CEC-DGXVII demonstration project a hygroregulating natural ventilation system is being evaluated in 52 occupied apartments. Therefore a multi purpose automated tracer gas equipment has been developed enabling the detailed monitoring of air flow rates in 60 rooms continuously. In addition the humidity levels, CO2 levels and air temperatures are measured as well as the outdoor climate. The first measurement campaigns partly used for evaluation of the measurement system are reported and show an impressive amount of data enabling various types of detailed analysis.

The use of computers for data acquisition and analysis in air exchange measurements with tracer gases has become state of the art for the researcher. However, for air exchange measurements in the field, reliable operation of the equipment and the proper reporting of the results are still points of concern. Here, the computer can assist the user in the correct handling of the tracer gas equipment, in dealing with unfavourable measurement conditions, and in the production of a readable report.

This paper describes tests of thermal and ventilation performance of two relatively new occupant-controlled localized thermal distribution (also called task ventilation) systems. The first is a raised-floor distribution system providing air through grilles in the floor panels, and the second is a desk-mounted unit supplying conditioned air at desktop level. These systems have been tested in a mockup of a typical partitioned open-plan office, and the resulting temperature and air velocity distributions are reported for a variety of system and locally controlled conditions.

In an experimental facility, we studied the performance of a task ventilation system designed for use in office buildings. With this system, occupants can adjust the flow rate and direction of air supplied to their work space through four floor-mounted supply grills. Air typically exits the ventilated space through ceiling-mounted return grills. To study indoor air flow patterns, we measured the age of air at multiple indoor locations using the tracer gas stepup procedure.

The functional and technical requirements which have been set for ventilation systems in dwelling houses of the future will result in ventilation systems featuring trouble-free and demand-controlled operation. This paper discussed the functional requirements and technical solutions of such ventilation systems.

Management for acceptable indoor air quality in office buildings requires that the buildings are properly designed, operated and maintained, and that property managers have the knowledge necessary to respond to changes in building operation and use. Although most property managers are non-technical people, with clearly defined guidelines they are capable of achieving this objective. This paper presents an IAQ guide for such a purpose. The guide has been tested by four property managers for accuracy in detecting potential problems and ease of use.

Sustained efforts to conserve energy during the last 15 years have taken place at the expense of the indoor environmental quality. Ventilation air volume has been reduced to a minimum. The use of new materials, substances and equipment which emit gases, vapours, fibres and other pollutants into indoor air are and additional reason for the increasing frequency of complaints about the indoor environment. If air quality is improved by increasing air volume, the energy demand will increase - and extended initial costs will rise.

With respect to architecture and building materials, this reorientation process has led to advanced technological developments designed to achieve a reduction in the consumption of resources for heating purposes. There is a general trend to reduce the heat loss caused by a transmission through walls and windows. Today, triple glazing and well-insulated walls are used to cut the heating energy demand. On a medium-term basis, the transmission loss might be reduced by approx. 70% so that anaverage energy consumption of 50 kWh per m squared and year might possibly be attained in the future.

Keynote speech describes the difficulties of designing air conditioning system with human comfort in mind. Lists design fundamentals for satisfactory indoor air quality, together with a description of some case studies.

Collection of papers and posters presented at the 11th AIVC Conference held in Italy, 1990.