The paper presents the cost optimization of an underground gas storage (UGS), designed from lined rock caverns (LRC). The optimization is performed by the non-linear programming (NLP) approach. For this purpose, the NLP optimization model OPTUGS was developed. The model comprises the cost objective function, which is subjected to geomechanical and design constraints. The geotechnical problem is proposed to be solved simultaneously. Geomechanical rock mass parameters are determined from geological conditions of a selected suitable UGS location and a special FE model is generated. The rock mass strength stability and safety of the system are then analyzed for various combinations between different design parameters like inner gas pressures, cavern depths, cavern diameters and cavern wall thickness. As a result, geomechanical constraints are approximated and put into the optimization model OPTUGS. This way, the optimization enables not only the obtaining of an optimal solution but also that the rock mass achieves sufficient strength stability and safety. The optimization is proposed to be performed for the phase of preliminary design. The numerical example at the end of the paper demonstrates the efficiency of the introduced optimization approach.
COBISS.SI-ID: 15161366
The current research presents an architectural design approach to determine an optimal proportion of the glazing areas in regard to energy-efficiency of prefabricated timber-frame buildings, with a special focus on the south-oriented glazing surfaces. A parametric analysis is performed on the variation of the glazing-to-wall area ratio (AGAW) from 0% to 80% for six different exterior wall elements with different thermal properties. Modifications are performed for the main cardinal directions, while a detailed analysis is carried out only for the south façade. The impact of the presented variable parameters on the energy demand for heating and cooling is analysed with the use of the PHPP software. A basic theoretical contribution of the present research is transformation of a complex energy related problem to only one single independent variable-that of thermal transmittance of the wall elements (Uwall-value), with a view to determining the optimal glazing area size (AGAWopt) for all contemporary prefabricated timber construction systems. The main aim of the current study is to offer architects a simple and useful shortcut to energy-efficient design of prefabricated timber-frame buildings. The use of mathematical linear interpolation is therefore presented as a simple method for predicting an approximate energy demand with respect to AGAW and Uwall-values.
COBISS.SI-ID: 15295766
The construction industry will have to find new ways of building to accomplish radical reductions of pollution and waste. Nano and biotechnology along with information technology have the potential to constitute a new building paradigm. The paper describes the concept of nano- to meter-scale building, which is based on this potential. The concept is not focused on the application of nanomaterials like nanosilica or carbon nanotubes, but on a new way of building, which unfolds from the nano into the meter range. It is based on bionanorobots, producing building materials using carbon extracted from CO2 in the air. Criteria and requirements regarding relevant technologies are defined and compared to the current research in the fields of bioengineering, nanorobotics, and characteristics and production of carbon nanotubes. The paper also presents a concept of a new building technology that would enable control and monitoring of construction at the nano level, as well as requirements regarding design methods and tools including the building information model that will become the only human input to the automated nano- to meter-scale building process. The paper concludes with suggestions for further research and development.
COBISS.SI-ID: 14394134