Achieving optimal design solutions requires an effective process that provides a framework within which a designer can consistently deliver high-quality work. As much as possible, within the constraints of a specific project, this must be a user-centred design process. Such constraints, however, require flexibility.

Learning about the project is the first step in the process. What is required of the design? For a building mechanical system design, this means knowing as much as possible about the building. What is required of the mechanical system? How will it be built? What type of glass will be used? What kind of lighting? When will people occupy the building? How many? What will they be doing? What will the building be used for? Where is the building being built?

As we learn more about the building we develop a computer model of the building that allows us to calculate how much heating and cooling is needed in the building. The more accurately we describe how the building will be used, the more accurately we can calculate the energy needs of the building.

If the mechanical system is to use the earth as an energy source, we need to determine how much land area is available to connect the system with the earth, and what the characteristics of the geology are on the site. Testing can be done to determine the soil properties, but there is a cost. Working with geologists, drilling contractors and excavation contractors will often give us enough information to estimate the soil and rock characteristics and develop a preliminary computer model of a ground heat exchanger (GHX). This determines how much land area is needed and what type of GHX can be built on the site and allow us to estimate the cost of building the GHX.

Accurate computer models allow us to estimate energy cost and construction cost. This is needed to develop a financial model of the system and answer a key question: Is the return on your investment sufficient to proceed with detailed design?

If it is, we can move forward and confirm the characteristics of the geology, and then with detailed design drawings and specifications.

If it isn’t, we can work with you on the design of a conventional heating, ventilation and air conditioning system using the energy model developed in step 1.