The Envi-Meter is more than just a device to me. It’s the embodiment of my philosophy, a tangible representation of my journey in this field (Computational + Environmental Design). This is a proof of concept that aligns with the “demo or die” philosophy. I believe that by comprehending the data inherent in our spaces, we can develop designs that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also responsive, efficient, and in true harmony with their surroundings. As I present to you the first prototype of Envi-Meter v1.0, I’m not just showcasing a new tool – Indeed, it is not literally a purely innovation, but rather a scientific conjecture that melds with computational design – I’m sharing a piece of my professional journey, thought, experimentation, and passion for pushing the boundaries of architectural design. This device represents where I’ve been, but more excitingly, it points to where we at LA Consultancy are headed – towards a future where data, digital technology, and design are seamlessly integrated to create spaces that truly respond to human needs.
Envi-Meter: IoT device for Environmental Data Collection to support Architectural Design and Simulations
The Genesis of Envi-Meter: My Personal Journey
Throughout my career, I’ve always been fascinated by what I call “data-space” – the idea that the spaces we inhabit are rich with data, waiting to be harnessed for architectural and design innovation. This concept has been my North Star, guiding my approach to every project I undertake at LA Consultancy. During my academic years, I coined the term D3 – “Data, Digital & Design”. This wasn’t just a catchy phrase; it encapsulated my vision for the future of architecture and design. As I progressed through various professional experiences and dove deep into scientific speculations, this concept continued to evolve in my mind. I’ve always prided myself on maintaining a high level of curiosity. It’s this curiosity that drives me to weave intricate design narratives, constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in our field. This relentless pursuit led me to revisit an old experimental project of mine – the “Multi-sensor feeler”. I saw the potential in this early experiment to create something truly useful for my computational + environmental design activities. I wanted to develop a tool that wasn’t just technologically advanced, but also perfectly aligned with the design and consultancy activities we undertake at LA Consultancy. This drive to innovate, combined with years of experience and insight, gave birth to the Envi-Meter v1.0.
Why Envi-Meter?
In the rapidly evolving world of architectural design, where sustainability and environmental responsiveness are paramount, a new tool is making waves: the Envi-Meter. This IoT device completely self developed and prototyped, currently in its 1.0 version, is set to collect and utilize environmental data for supporting my consultancy projects/services. Born from the intersection of technical expertise and scientific inquiry, Envi-Meter (as all IoT devices that support design activities) is the brainchild of forward-thinking designers aiming to bridge the gap between virtual simulations and real-world environmental conditions. Its primary purpose? To support environmental assessments that are typically simulated through parametric-environmental design software like LadybugTools and ClimateStudio via the Grasshopper VPL platform.
What can Envi-Meter do?
This compact powerhouse is equipped with a suite of sensors capable of detecting:
Temperature (T)
Humidity (H)
Barometric pressure (ATM)
Illuminance (LUX)
Visible light (V)
Infrared (IR)
UV index (UV)
But that’s not all. Through specific calculation procedures, Envi-Meter can also provide data on:
Altitude (ALT)
Heat stress index “Heat index” (HI)
Dew point
In addition it integrates all the Blynk Cloud powers!
The Power of Cloud Integration - Blynk.io
One of Envi-Meter’s most impressive features is its cloud connectivity. By leveraging a local WiFi network, the device transfers all collected data to a Cloud/IoT platform thanks Blynk features. This integration allows users to access real-time data and graphs via PC or mobile app, offering unprecedented ease of monitoring and analysis. Moreover, the cloud integration enables Over The Air (OTA) updates, allowing for remote firmware updates. This feature is crucial for adapting the Envi-Meter’s behavior to specific survey conditions or geographical locations without physical access to the device.
Designed for Portability and Efficiency
Envi-Meter comes in a sleek, 3D-printed case housing the core sensors and microcontroller. It’s powered by an external power bank, making it easily transportable – even through airport security. The device operates on a “wake and sleep” cycle, actively collecting data during predetermined daytime hours and entering an energy-saving mode at night.
The Technical Nitty-Gritty
At the heart of Envi-Meter is an ESP WROOM-32 microcontroller with 30 pins to develop the project, complemented by high-performance sensors like BME280, VEML7700, and SI1145 (Adafruit). These components work in concert to provide accurate and comprehensive environmental data.
The device’s brain is programmed using Arduino IDE, with the Blynk platform serving as the backbone for cloud connectivity and remote management.
For power supply, I’ve opted for an external power bank with a capacity of 26800 mAh, providing approximately 175 hours of autonomy. This allows for a full week of data-mining within the predefined time range.
Implications for Architectural Design simulations at LA Consultancy
The Envi-Meter represents more than just a new gadget; it’s a paradigm shift in how we approach environmental data in architectural design. By providing accurate, real-time data, it allows architects to:
- Validate and refine their virtual simulations
- Make more informed decisions about materials and design strategies
- Assess the effectiveness of interventions like shading systems in real-world conditions
Below a small pamphlet about Envi-Meter
Abstract. The Envi-Meter v1.0 is an innovative IoT device designed for environmental data mining in architectural and design contexts. Developed by LA Consultancy, this portable sensor array collects crucial environmental data including temperature, humidity, barometric pressure, illuminance, visible light, infrared, and UV index. Utilizing cloud integration and a “wake and sleep” operational cycle, the Envi-Meter offers real-time data visualization and analysis through a dedicated mobile app and web interface. This tool bridges the gap between virtual simulations and real-world conditions, supporting evidence-based design decisions and performance evaluations in architectural projects. The Envi-Meter represents a significant step towards integrated design in the digital age, embodying the convergence of rapid prototyping, computer programming, and environmental sensing in contemporary architecture.
Keywords: Environmental data mining, IoT device, Real-time data visualization, Blynk platform, Integrated design, HW prototyping
Looking Ahead: The Future of Integrated Design
As we stand on the cusp of what the creators call a “Digital Renaissance” in architecture, tools like Envi-Meter are paving the way for a new era of integrated design concept especially to extend the importance of the Computational + Environmental Design approach to Architecture. This approach blends rapid prototyping, computer programming, additive manufacturing, and environmental sensing into a cohesive design process.
The result? Buildings that are not just structures, but living organisms capable of adapting to their environment. As we continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in architectural design, Envi-Meter and tools like it will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the smart, responsive, and sustainable buildings of tomorrow.
In conclusion, Envi-Meter is more than just an environmental data collection tool. It’s a glimpse-concept into the future of architectural design – a future where data-driven decisions and real-time environmental responsiveness are not just ideals, but realities. As we confront the challenges of climate change and urbanization, IoT companion devices, such as the Envi-Meter, will play a crucial role in the development of sustainable, adaptive building designs/workflows that our world requires.