VRF Technology: An Innovative HVAC System for Achieving LEED Points will educate you on Variable Refrigerant Flow Zoning Systems. At the end of this course, you will be able to describe the basic differences between VRF zoning systems and other HVAC options. Describe the major benefits of VRF zoning systems. Recall the LEED categories where VRF zoning systems provide credit opportunities.And describe at least two design challenges that were met using VRF zoning systems from the case study examples referred to in this presentation.

This course explains why severe weather events are causing designs, standards, and codes to be revisited. Resiliency in architecture is explained and the reasons resilient buildings suffer less downtime and provide improved performance under extreme conditions are enumerated. While resilience generally means better prepared for adverse conditions and better able to handle and survive them, this course will drill down into the many facets of resilience that include planning and material selection, to provide a better understanding of performance of materials and systems under stress.

AIA Course Code PacClad2018-D

Arguably, selecting insulation and cover boards is the most important decision when designing a roofing system because of the many benefits these products provide in terms of service life, building safety, and energy efficiency. This course explores the characteristics, advantages, and cautions of the primary insulation and cover boards on the commercial roofing market today, and then considers the installation methodologies that will optimize the building's energy efficiency.

This course, based upon scientific research and emerging medical discovery, illustrates how top daylighting (daylight penetration through the roof) design strategies produce positive biological responses impacting employee health and well-being. Participants will examine how exposure to "skydome dynamic daylight" throughout the workday provides all biologically relevant criteria for positive circadian system impact.

Due to skilled labor shortages, compressed schedules, and the potential for greater quality control, off-site wood construction has become increasingly popular. This presentation will cover the unique design and construction techniques associated with pre-fabricated and off-site panelized wood systems. An introduction to the different levels of off-site construction and review of associated products and services will be followed by a demonstration of cost and schedule benefits based on real-world projects. A step-by-step process will be presented for designers new to off-site construction, with information on how to find and utilize partners and resources, the integrated design process, and differences compared to traditional on-site methods. Trends and future projections for the use of off-site construction, as well as its advantages, will also be reviewed.

Translucent Panel Daylighting Systems explores the numerous benefits of daylighting to humans, its impact on energy reduction and common myths associated with daylighting. Upon completion students will understand the the features and benefits of Fiberglass Reinforced Polymer (FRP) daylighting systems as well as load capabilities and code requirements for such systems.

This is a very popular course on emerging top daylighting technologies and improved solutions, you'll learn about the challenges within current daylight applications as the course focuses on best application practices, utilizing technological advancements with monument/architectural skylights, unit skylights, and tubular daylighting devices. In addition, we discuss the important benefits of essential energy codes and how to use the codes to produce energy efficient daylighting designs within aesthetically pleasing, high quality spaces where people live, work, and play. Note: The required download is a Master Spec for Metal Framed Skylights which provides an in-depth resource for understanding the elements of construction, natural of materials, performance requirements and qualifications of testing for modular skylights.

A course designed to teach the history of synthetic turf, it's application in water and energy conservation, pollution abatement, sustainable design, and its versatility in numerous landscaping applications and designs. Participants will become knowledgeable about synthetic turf and innovative applications that could be applied to their residential and commercial projects. The most current technological advances in the industry and the positive role synthetic turf plays in the environment.

(Please note: The Study Guide is a technical paper offering CDC recommendations on Environmental Infection Control in Health-Care Facilities with specific interest in (P.9) "Additional Engineering Measures as Indicated by Epidemiologic Investigation for Controlling Waterborne, Healthcare-Associated Legionnaires Disease" and is supplemental to this course. It provides valuable insight to those who specify water features in Healthcare facilities. Please download upon enrolling.)

This course will introduce you to the concept of incorporating indoor water features in a variety of architectural applications. After reviewing the system components and various types of water features, you'll find out what design considerations factor into a successful installation. Then we'll take a closer look at two water feature applications so you can appreciate the benefits of partnering with a specialty contractor.