A method for evaluating the problem complex of choosing the ventilation system for a new building

The application of a ventilation system in a new building is a multidimensional complex problem that involves quantifiable and non-quantifiable data like energy consump¬tion, indoor environment, building integration and architectural expression. This paper presents a structured method for evaluating the performance of a ventilation system in the design proces by treating quantifiable and non-quantifiable datasets together. The method is based on general morphological analysis and applies cross-consistency assessment for reducing the problem complex, thus treating the multi-dimensionality, the uncertainty and the subjectivity that arises in the design proces on a sound methodological and scientific basis. Through a distance analysis of the shared parameter values the solution scenarios may be plotted relative to each other, hence providing the designer with an illustrated ‘space of solutions’. Herein the designer may view multiple ventilation solutions and navigate between them, evaluate the differences and choose the best ventilation system scenario in terms of energy consumption, indoor environment and architectural quality.