BIOMIMICRY IN THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT: A COMPREHENSIVE ANALYSIS OF ENERGY SAVINGS WITH THE BIOMIMETIC WINDOW IN EDUCATIONAL BUILDINGS

ABSTRACT In this study, the author focused on energy savings within educational buildings, and the potential benefits of implementing a biomimetic window system were examined. The system was designed to introduce a daylight system into areas of buildings traditionally limited of natural light. Utilizing the ASHRAE formula, the research compared energy consumption from a validated 3D model of the building with and without the proposed window system. Results indicated an annual energy saving of $6,663.13 when comparing the actual energy usage to the simulated model with the window system. A more conservative estimate, which compared two 3D models (with and without the window system), yielded savings of $4,291.10 or a 9.92% reduction in energy consumption. This not only emphasizes the window system's environmental advantages but its economic viability. The findings suggest that similar systems, when applied to buildings with basements or similar structures, might achieve even greater energy savings.