Under the Dome: An Educational Journey into Urban Energy Solutions
The project aims to create a miniaturized model of energy systems for future cities, designed as an educational environment for KTH students. This initiative will develop a compact system that replicates the functionality of various real-world energy subsystems, including energy demand (e.g., buildings) and sustainable supply technologies.
Background
The “Under the Dome” project creates a miniaturized model of energy systems for future cities, serving as an educational environment for KTH students. This compact system replicates the functionality of various real-world energy subsystems, including energy demand from buildings and sustainable supply technologies such as heat pumps, solar photovoltaics, and energy storage solutions. The physical system integrates with simulation models, enabling the evaluation of diverse weather conditions to enhance realism and educational impact. This combination of tangible mockups and digital models provides an interactive learning experience, fostering collaboration among students across programs and nationalities.
The miniaturized system, housed at Brinellvägen 68, incorporates sensors and data loggers to monitor temperature, humidity, energy use, and local production. A moving artificial lamp simulates solar irradiance and daylight cycles, illustrating energy demand and supply dynamics. Students interact with the system by modifying parameters and observing real-time effects through displayed measurements and indicators.
The project offers hands-on learning opportunities, allowing students to explore building energy systems, conduct experiments, and earn micro-credits tied to KTH education. Gamification elements, workshops, and collaborations with industrial partners provide additional engagement, transforming the dome into a hub for learning and innovation in sustainable urban energy solutions.
Aim and objectives
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Provide hands-on learning opportunities that enable students to gain practical experience in managing and understanding building energy systems.
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Facilitate student observation of energy system operations in future urban areas while offering interactive features for experiments and parameter modifications.
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Integrate micro-credit opportunities into KTH education, connecting the dome’s functionalities to academic progress.
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Enhance the educational experience through gamification, introducing challenges that encourage students to optimize system performance.
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Organize periodic workshops and tutorials to guide students in using the system and interpreting data for a comprehensive learning experience.
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Collaborate with industrial partners to bring real-world insights and expand the dome’s components, features, and resources.
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Establish the dome as an educational and marketing tool to attract international students and foster interdisciplinary collaboration among students from various programs.
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Create a dynamic meeting place where students can discuss topics related to smart and sustainable cities, promoting innovation and shared learning.
Project
Funding is provided by ITM School.
Timeframe: 2024-2025
Researchers
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