The IHBI Lab allows occupants, developers, and stakeholders to evaluate technologies, optimize strategies, and explore scenarios under realistic simulated conditions, advancing climate-smart design.
The laboratory experiment at the IHBI Lab integrates two distinct yet interconnected environments: an immersive virtual environment (digital) and a climate chamber (physical). Together, these environments provide a cutting-edge platform for testing sustainable solutions designed to meet human needs.
Testbed Functions
1. Personalized Sustainable Solution Packages
IHBI Lab functions as a dynamic testbed where customized sustainable building solutions are co-developed and tested with occupants. Through the integration of immersive virtual environments and climate chambers, users can engage with and evaluate various sustainable options (e.g., insulation upgrades, ventilation improvements, smart energy systems) under simulated real-world conditions.
2. Sustainable Technology Testing and Co-Development
IHBI provides a controlled and interactive testing environment for manufacturers and developers to trial and refine sustainable technologies—such as HVAC systems, smart controls, building materials, and energy-efficient lighting—by simulating occupant interaction and environmental conditions.
3. Scenario-Based Experimentation for Strategic Planning
IHBI Lab acts as a decision-support environment for exploring and evaluating sustainable development strategies (e.g., energy transition plans, occupant behavior change initiatives, urban design scenarios). Stakeholders can test how different solutions perform under varied user profiles, building types, and climate conditions using immersive simulations and environmental modelling.
Project contact
Weizhuo Lu
weizhuo.lu@umu.se
Swedish