FARU - 2024

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://192.248.9.226/handle/123/23046

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 50

item: Conference-Full-text
Analysis of pm 2.5 exposure impact in different atmospheric contexts: a detailed fem simulation analysis in a virtual LOAC device
(Faculty of Architecture Research Unit, 2024) Sami, MG; Dola, MY; Roy, A; Rahman, TU
PM 2.5 concentration is a significant factor in fine particulate matter pollution, causing adverse health impacts, particularly respiratory health. Different sources of PM 2.5 pollutants can also damage human lungs. A comparative impact analysis on lungs in high and low-AQI-ranked cities can help regenerate urban air quality improvement guidelines and future land-use planning. A study of human lung mechanism simulation using a microfluidic device's virtual 3D model called Lung on a Chip (LOAC), by analyzing fine particle transport, deposition, cell uptake, and inflammatory response, shows how changes in PM 2.5 concentration cause damage to health conditions. The deposition level is not proportional to the PM 2.5 concentration; it depends on the source, breathing style, outdoor exposure, and exposure duration. This research helps identify harmful PM 2.5 concentration thresholds and guides future research on healthy zoning in future cities, considering air quality's impact on human health in urban areas.
item: Conference-Full-text
Envisioning river-based urbanism in Bangladesh: a landscape-systems-informed approach for urban settlement pattern within a decolonized river terrain
(Faculty of Architecture Research Unit, 2024) Muhaymin, A-AL-; Shahed, A
Bangladesh was once a river-based artisan context where the locals co-existed with the ever-shifting land and water. But this transient context was transformed into a static land-based agrarian one, by the land policies during the colonial period. Consequently, inappropriate settlements took over the river terrain and the locals started conceiving natural riverine flood and erosion exclusively as calamities. Colonial river engineering mechanisms appeared to be faulty as they were devoid of awareness of the underlying landscape systems and failed to protect the local population from these riverine calamities. This research intends to find suitable landscape architectural strategies that can dismantle the colonized river domain and alleviate the adverse effects of flooding and land erosion while guiding the urban settlements within the transient river terrain. The Brahmaputra-Jamuna River system has been taken as a case-study site for the research by design. Through site analysis at multiple scales and investigation of native practices, precedent cases, and relevant toolboxes, the research demonstrates design schemes, applying a set of multi-scalar landscape architectural strategies and tactics that can promote resilience for the local settlements to deal with apparently adverse riverine landscape events so that they can be harnessed for the greater good of the community.
item: Conference-Full-text
Influence of soundmarks in creating the sense of place in urban landscape design of public spaces
(Faculty of Architecture Research Unit, 2024) Silva, CN
Sri Lanka's rapid urbanization has led to the transformation of public spaces, particularly in Colombo, to improve city living and aesthetics. However, the current state of public spaces is characterized by monotonous landscape developments, with a focus on visual quality and limited consideration of auditory aspects. This study on soundscapes aim to address this gap by identifying soundmarks that provide unique and recognizable qualities for spaces. The research questions include how soundscapes can contribute to avoiding monotony in urban public spaces, identifying existing soundmarks, analyzing spatial arrangement, and developing guidelines for integrating soundmarks in landscape design. The research objectives include understanding the impact of soundscape on the quality of urban public spaces, identifying existing soundmarks, analyzing spatial arrangement, and relating social relationships of users to the various aspects of soundscape in urban public spaces. The study will use methods such as soundwalking and user interviews to explore the multimodal observation of the urban environment, incorporating visual and sonic cues.
item: Conference-Full-text
Impact of use of sustainable materials on road construction
(Faculty of Architecture Research Unit, 2024) Sayanthan, T; Perera, BAKS; Fernando, SMH
The growing emphasis on sustainability has highlighted the importance of eco-friendly and cost-effective approaches, particularly in road construction, where the use of renewable, earth-derived materials is encouraged. However, some professionals still believe that using sustainable materials may adversely affect project outcomes in terms of cost and quality. In line with that, this study aims to investigate the impact of incorporating sustainable materials on road construction projects. The study uses a qualitative approach with semi-structured interviews, utilising the Delphi technique with two rounds of expert interviews to gather empirical data, which is then analysed using content analysis. Findings reveal that construction and demolition waste, recycled tyres, waste plastics, fly ash, recycled glass, polyethylene terephthalate plastic bottles, asphalt shingles, cement kiln dust, colliery spoils, recycled asphalt, and warm mix asphalt are the commonly used sustainable materials in road construction. Furthermore, the study identified eleven positive impacts and sixteen negative impacts of using sustainable materials in road construction, which were later classified under each commonly used sustainable material. Overall, this study contributes to advancing knowledge in sustainable road construction, guiding future research and decision-making in the field, and encouraging the use of sustainable materials to promote environmental responsibility.
item: Conference-Full-text
Exoskeleton for health and safety in construction workers: a literature review
(Faculty of Architecture Research Unit, 2024) Wijesinghe, SMNB; Wijerathna, MRDP; Ranadewa, KATO; Parameswaran, A
Health and safety in construction are critical concerns, and exoskeletons present a promising solution to mitigate these issues. Designed to improve the ergonomics of wearers, exoskeletons are increasingly used across various industries. While this technology is relatively new to the Sri Lankan construction sector, it is already employed in many developed countries. The research aims to develop a conceptual framework for implementing exoskeletons among construction workers in Sri Lanka. A comprehensive literature review was conducted to assess the impact of exoskeletons on worker health and safety, emphasizing their ergonomic benefits and potential barriers to adoption. Findings indicate that exoskeletons have significant potential in reducing work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) when properly integrated into construction tasks. The study proposes a conceptual framework that assists managers in selecting suitable exoskeleton types and tasks, aiming to enhance worker safety and productivity. This framework contributes to the construction industry by offering a structured approach to implementing exoskeletons, thereby addressing unique sector challenges and improving overall occupational health outcomes. Future research should focus on practical implementations and further exploration of barriers and facilitators to optimize exoskeleton adoption in construction contexts.
item: Conference-Full-text
Remote work: reshaping physical space in the post-pandemic
(Faculty of Architecture Research Unit, 2024) Thilakarathne, TMSK; Vale, B; Petrovic, EK
Work has always been a part of human life, evolving through economic, cultural, societal, and technological changes. In recent years, remote work or work-from-home (WFH) has become more prevalent in the broader landscape due to technological advancements. COVID-19 led to a normalization of working from home, prompting the need for further research on the physical aspects of this new work model. This paper examines the findings of a pilot study for investigating the physical aspects of home workspaces in the context of New Zealand. The study was exploratory research, as home office spaces have not been extensively examined. The research used an ethnographic approach to gather primary data using semi-structured video interviews supported by photographic evidence. The results suggest that homeowners tend to have more suitable workspaces than renters. However, this may be influenced by factors such as shared living arrangements, small home sizes, and family composition, indicating a need for further exploration of workspace suitability. The study emphasized the significance of natural lighting and the lack of attention to proper ergonomics in home workspaces. The trend of working from home appears to be more enduring than anticipated. Further research is needed to understand how individuals have adjusted their homes for work. More studies are required to encompass diverse regions, cultures, genders, and socioeconomic contexts for a comprehensive perspective of work-from-home practices.
item: Conference-Full-text
The Impact of Sri Lankan traditional toy design on child development
(Faculty of Architecture Research Unit, 2024) Kulathunga, WDD
Toys are one of the most rooted memories in every child's life. From early childhood to teenage ages children used to play with different toys. Sometimes this bond lasts long for the rest of the life. Sri Lanka, enriched with different traditions and values, has a special place for toys as well. This study explores the significant role of Sri Lankan traditional toys when it comes to child development. Sri Lankan traditional toys have different material variations, colors, and assembly processes. The study utilizes 6 unique cases of Sri Lankan traditional toys such as wooden toys, game boards, and toy guns. The study further evaluates cognitive skills, emotional development, physical development, social development, and creative thinking parameters based on a rating scale. The results revealed that gameplay with these toys fosters emotional and problem-solving abilities. Through group play toys foster emotional and social development. This research highlights the influence of traditional toys on child physical, cognitive, and social development.
item: Conference-Full-text
A Comparative analysis of the cognitive differences in wayfinding among local and internally migrant students in urban environments: a trip from BUET campus to Dhaka new market
(Faculty of Architecture Research Unit, 2024) Nandi, D; Kundu, G
Urban design is the art of creating spaces that are high-quality, sustainable, and appealing for living, working, and relaxing. Effective urban design ensures legibility, aiding people in navigating their environment. By incorporating wayfinding studies in urban place-making, we can create inclusive spaces that are not only functional and efficient but also enjoyable and safe for everyone. With many students migrating to Dhaka city from various parts of Bangladesh for higher education and job opportunities, this research examines the differences in cognitive abilities between local and internal migrant students in perceiving the city. The study targets first-year students from the Department of Architecture at Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), using detailed questionnaire survey, inter-place distance judgment, and sketch map analysis. Utilizing Kevin Lynch’s five elements as a framework, the research identifies the extent of different urban elements helping both the groups enhancing their spatial cognition and facilitating unrestricted movement. Results reveal significant differences in mental mapping between locals and newcomers. This study provides valuable insights for urban designers, helping them develop design guidelines to create a legible city that meets the needs of both residents and newcomers.
item: Conference-Full-text
A Study of smart enhancements in specialized AI applications comparing initial versions to upgraded models within sustainable urban planning integration
(Faculty of Architecture Research Unit, 2024) Hasan, F; Kaveesha, L; Sankalpa, S; Jayasinghe, A; Sathsarana, S
This study examines the development of specialist urban planning chatbots, with a specific focus on the development process from Chatbot 1.0 to Chatbot 2.0. The paper offers a comprehensive examination of the chatbot concept and its use in urban planning. The study highlights the need of involving citizens, sharing information, and making decisions based on data. The report provides an analysis of Chatbot 1.0, including its development process, inputs from stakeholders, significant restrictions, and features influenced by the ChatGPT API. The feedback received from stakeholders indicates a resounding approval for the urban planning chatbot, as a significant majority of respondents reported satisfaction and acknowledged its significance. Nevertheless, several constraints have been observed, including the inability to remember past discussions, do specific tasks, interpret visuals, and comprehend geographic information. The study focuses further into the justification for creating Chatbot 2.0, emphasizing the requirement for a superior, adaptable, and economical solution. Key improvements in Chatbot 2.0 encompass the incorporation of the Hugging Chat API, the ability to conduct real-time web searches, and the utilization of reliable data from Urban Development Authorities (UDA) for training purposes. Moreover, the chatbot's functionality and user experience are enhanced with features such as 'Pro Planning Mode' and a 'user-centric graphical user interface'. This study provides a comprehensive overview of the creation and improvement of a specific chatbot for urban planning. It describes the evolution of the chatbot from its initial form to address its initial constraints
item: Conference-Full-text
Effects on preschool furniture for physical comfort of children: aged between 2-5 years in Colombo area
(Faculty of Architecture Research Unit, 2024) Tirimanne, HDDS; Samarasinghe, A
The study explores the impact of preschool furniture on the physical comfort of children, highlighting the significant role of the furniture in their physical comfort. The research focuses on ergonomics and sustainability of preschool furniture. This research is done using the research onion method by using all its layers, which are the philosophy, approach, strategies used, choices, time horizon and techniques and procedures. After analysing the data through questionnaires and case studies, the study shows that both ergonomics and sustainability have a positive impact on the physical comfort of children. But in Sri Lankan context there’s less sustainable furniture in preschool so this area should be improved vastly. Whereas when ergonomics are considered, most of the physical ergonomics factors are considered when selecting furniture for preschool, but there are few minor improvements to be done to make the preschool furniture have a positive effect on the physical comfort of children.
item: Conference-Full-text
Evaluation of user behavioral patterns responding to internal social spaces of elderly care resorts
(Faculty of Architecture Research Unit, 2024) Chinthaka, KWCJ; Senaarachchige, W; Mendis, M
This study investigates user behavioral patterns in the internal social spaces of elderly care resorts in Sri Lanka, contrasting them with the more common concept of elderly homes. Focusing on the local elderly community who reside in these resorts, the research explores how interior design and architecture impact their behavior and activities. Through case studies on three major elderly care resorts in Colombo, the study examines how elements like spatial arrangements, furniture placement, color psychology, and wayfinding methods contribute to the physical and mental well-being of elderly users. The research highlights the potential differences in responses between educated older individuals and other user groups, emphasizing the importance of designing spaces that cater to the diverse needs and preferences of the elderly. By identifying key elements that influence user perception and behavior, this study aims to contribute valuable insights for designers in creating more effective and accommodating spaces for elderly residents.
item: Conference-Full-text
Investigate the potential of bamboo leaves for the development of particle boards for interior applications
(Faculty of Architecture Research Unit, 2024) Silva, KHNDD; Mendis, M
This study focuses on the viability of using dried bamboo leaves in addition to other leaf types like date palm and banana to generate sustainability particleboard for interior usage. It analyzes the characteristics of the boards, comparing them to standard practices for things like density, water absorption, and thickness swelling. The goal of the study is to encourage the development of materials by showcasing the potential of leaf-based particle boards as affordable and environmentally beneficial substitutes. The study is to convince stakeholders of the potential of bamboo leaf particle boards and encourage more research and development in this field by raising awareness of the environment and promoting sustainable construction practices in Sri Lanka.
item: Conference-Full-text
The Impact of viewing vistas on psychological well-being a study on the service providers in selected government hospitals in the hill country, Sri Lanka
(Faculty of Architecture Research Unit, 2024) Rathnasinghe, AS; Hettiarachchi, AA
This research explores the impact of natural vistas on the psychological well-being of healthcare professionals, in Sri Lankan government hospitals around the hill country region. Given the demanding and stressful nature of their roles, understanding the preferences of medical staff for scenic views and the effect of these views on their well-being is crucial. The study is rooted in the Attention Restoration Theory by Kaplan and the Stress Reduction Theory by Ulrich, with a focus on specific parameters: Observer Landscape Distance (OLD), connection to the outside, visual content, and visual privacy. Data Collection was done in two stages: primary and secondary data collection. A mixed method approach was used in the research. The study was carried out in two hospitals in the Haputhale and Bandarawela districts. Literature suggests that the nursing staff spend most of the time in movement due to their duties; therefore, the nursing staff was selected to gather data. The research explores the relationship between exposure to natural vistas and the well-being of these professionals, considering factors such as accessibility and placement of nature views, selection of suitable vegetation and the integration of restorative elements within hospital environments. The findings reveal that borrowed natural landscape views have a restorative effect on the mind, enhancing psychological well-being among medical staff. This highlights the significance of landscape architecture in hospital design, especially in hill country regions. Emphasizing surrounding vistas and elevations, rather than solely focusing on physical infrastructure, could substantially improve the quality of life for medical service providers.
item: Conference-Full-text
Circular e food supply chain for achieving zero food waste goals: insights from Sri Lankan hotel industry
(Faculty of Architecture Research Unit, 2024) Dilshan, KDSI; Mallawaarachchi, BH; Yatawatta, YJM
As one of the largest food consuming industries in the world, the hotel industry makes a significant contribution to the global food waste generation. There is a significant impact for the sustainability in terms of food waste from the hotels. One of the major types of food waste generated in the hotel sector can be identified as “plate waste” which consists of edible foods, but not eaten by the guests. Similarly, in Sri Lanka, food waste can be identified as a growing problem due to rapid urbanization, and changes in lifestyles. The concept of circular economy has obtained world attention in reducing waste, hence adopting CE into food supply chain can be identified as an ideal way to achieve zero food waste goals of hotel industry. Since, a few studies have been specifically focused on investigating the application of CE concept in food supply chain in hotel industry, this research aimed to investigate the existing CE practices, and challenges faced when adopting CE into food supply chain of hotel industry in Sri Lanka. as the suitable research strategy, exploratory case study strategy was adopted in this research by investigating three selected hotels in Sri Lanka. Content analysis was used as a suitable data analysis technique. As derived through analysis, various insights from Sri Lanka hotel industry were derived and finally, a framework for CE transition of food supply chain for achieving zero food waste was developed. The developed framework provides important insights for CE transition in hotel industry to accelerate the existing waste management practices towards circularity. Hence, this research would be a key milestone for future research of transforming hotel industry towards circularity.
item: Conference-Full-text
Enhancing guest experience in guest rooms through sustainable strategies for indoor air quality improvement in Sri Lankas luxury hotels
(Faculty of Architecture Research Unit, 2024) Chandani, GGN; YatawattA, YJM
Enhancing the guest experience in Sri Lanka’s luxury hotels requires a focus on sustainable strategies to improve indoor air quality (IAQ) which is essential for guest health and comfort. The tropical climates like in Sri Lanka presents unique challenges, such as high humidity, which can lead to mold growth and pollutant accumulation. Poor IAQ can result in discomfort and health issues for guests, undermining the reputation of luxury hotels. This paper explores sustainable solutions to enhance IAQ, such as including upgrading ventilation systems, regular maintenance of HVAC units, and the use of eco-friendly building materials and cleaning products. By focusing on long-term improvements rather than short-term fixes, hotels can provide a healthier environment. Key strategies include incorporating advanced filtration systems to reduce VOCs and particulate matter, leveraging natural ventilation, and managing humidity to prevent mold. The use of indoor plants and responsible pest control are also explored as additional measures. This study provides original insights into how sustainable IAQ practices can enhance guest satisfaction while aligning with global sustainability trends. The research uses a qualitative approach, with case studies of luxury hotels in Sri Lanka. Through expert interviews the study assesses current IAQ practices and their impact on guest experiences. This research contributes to the field by offering valuable insights into the integration of IAQ improvement strategies into sustainable hotel practices, positioning Sri Lanka’s luxury hotels as leaders in promoting a healthier, more sustainable guest experience.
item: Conference-Full-text
Nature based therapeutic impact of borrowed landscape on the stress reduction of secondary school teachers
(Faculty of Architecture Research Unit, 2024) Welange, WIMAR; Chandrasekara, DP; Dharmasena, J
Stress among public secondary school teachers has become a worldwide issue owing far reaching implications. Since the nature has therapeutic effects, incorporating natural borrowed views in to the working places have the ability to reduce stress. With the objective of examining the stress management of public secondary school teachers using natural borrowed views, set in the WP/GM Bandaranayake College, a pilot study was executed among 40 male and female teachers which proved that the majority of both male and female teachers were under stress according to the stress scale. Then, the most preferred views were identified through a structured questionnaire, such as greenery, water and sky. Accordingly, five 3D borrowed views were simulated for the main study, resulting significantly better responses on stress management tests among the participants. The results concluded that female teachers are more stressed than male teachers and both male and female teachers prefer to observe a borrowed view of a combination of natural elements, rather than solely observing each element. Further, it was found that there is no impact of gender towards the therapeutic impact of nature on humans. The findings invite future researches to conduct more studies related stress management and designing healthy working environments.
item: Conference-Full-text
A Study of integrating real-time emotion and sentiment analysis in urban planning
(Faculty of Architecture Research Unit, 2024) Kaveesha, L; Sankalpa, S; Diwyanjali, G
Urban environments are dynamic and multifaceted, with diverse factors influencing the sentiment and emotions of their inhabitants. This paper presents a comprehensive model for real time urban emotion and sentiment analysis, utilizing data from social media, news articles, video feeds, and sensors. By employing advanced natural language processing and computer vision techniques, this model aims to provide policymakers and urban planners with actionable insights to enhance public engagement, inform urban design, and create responsive, inclusive environments. With the digitalization process accelerating globally, nearly everyone uses smartphones and social media. People increasingly read news articles online rather than using printed materials. For safety, many individuals install CCTV cameras in their shops and homes, especially in densely populated areas. Additionally, there is a growing awareness and attention to environmental indices compared to past years. This research aims to incorporate these factors social media usage, online news consumption, widespread CCTV installations, and increased environmental awareness into an integrated model. By analyzing emotions and sentiments, the model seeks to determine whether a location is suitable for people to spend their time based on collective emotional responses.
item: Conference-Full-text
Social impacts due to landscape disruption caused by the central expressway: with reference to Kadawatha - Mirigama section
(Faculty of Architecture Research Unit, 2024) Wijesinghe, WAMO; Gamage, WO
The construction of expressways in Sri Lanka has been a critical force in the country’s development. However, most of the expressway projects will cause large-scale landscape disruptions to the natural landscape fabric. Somehow gaps in the analytical stages before the construction cause mass disruptions to the living landscapes. The study was conducted based on the ongoing central expressway to investigate the social impacts caused by the landscape disruption of the project. Under the project title, an environmental impact assessment was conducted, but the social impact assessment was not discussed responsibly. This quantitative and qualitative research was based on the selected case study locations with the highest social disturbance. The study was structured by the parameters found from the field expert’s structured interviews. Data was collected through field surveys, GIS data analysis, and satellite imagery analysis. The study will analyse the social fabric of the study areas before and after the project as a comparative study. Used parameters mentioned in the methodology can be used as a framework to analyse the social impact assessment criteria in a relevant context. The contribution of this study will be beneficial in future construction projects in Sri Lanka, to mitigate the social consequences caused by large-scale landscape disruptions.
item: Conference-Full-text
Destigmatizing mental health treatment centers through architectural interventions; insights from national institute of mental health, Mulleriyawa, Sri Lanka.
(Faculty of Architecture Research Unit, 2024) Ranasinghe, RDA; Hettiarachchi, AA
In the modern Sri Lanka context, despite frequent awareness programs and increased access to information, an inherent stigma associated with mental health disorders and treatment methods prevail. The Architectural characteristics and elements of existing mental health facilities have been found to amplify these negative perceptions hindering patients' access to effective mental health care. Within this backdrop, this study looks into the Architectural parameters that contribute to the stigmatization of mental health facilities, adopting a mixed-methods approach taking the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) in Mulleriyawa as a case study. Participants’ perceptions (n=36) on seven selected spaces [; admin building facade, old ward facade, specialized departments, new ward exterior, old ward interior, entrance lobby and main corridor] within the facility were gathered through an author designed online questionnaire survey, while their corresponding levels of well-being and depression, stress, and anxiety levels were evaluated using SACRA-15 Building Well-Being Scale and the DASS-21 scale respectively. A majority of the participants reported severe levels of depression, anxiety, and stress across all the spaces studied, with the highest percentage of participants relating to ‘old ward interior” [86%,72%,75] followed by new ward exterior [97%,55%,61%]. Consistent with this finding, the majority of participants demonstrated low levels of wellbeing scores across the spaces tested, out of which ‘old ward interior’ and the ‘new ward exteriors’ were significant with highest percentages of participants with low levels of wellbeing [81% and 70%]. The main corridor of the facility was the only space showing a moderate level of well-being due to significant attributes of natural light, ventilation, nature connectedness and spaciousness. The participants identified the Architectural quality of NIMH as “‘prison-like’, ‘unwelcoming’, ‘scary’ and ‘gloomy’, contributing to an oppressive atmosphere which reinforced stigma. Restricted visual and physical access, lack of visual connections, limited access to green spaces, inadequate natural lighting and color, unbalanced solid-to-void ratios and underutilization of vistas were found to contribute towards the existing and monotonous ambience with sense of containment, leading to the stigmatization of this mental health establishment. Based on these findings, the study recommends incorporating courtyards and green spaces, improving the use of color, removing visible demarcations while maintaining functional and psychological boundaries, and optimizing material choices and spatial volumes as supportive Architectural interventions to help de-stigmatize mental health treatment centers.
item: Conference-Full-text
Thermal performance and behavioural diversities of workers at mixed-mode office buildings in Mannar: a field investigation
(Faculty of Architecture Research Unit, 2024) Kanistan, AA; Rajapaksha, IGP
Sri Lanka faces escalating electricity consumption, with buildings contributing significantly. Indoor overheating, exacerbated by inadequate sustainable design, compromises occupant comfort and amplifies energy demand in both air-conditioned and naturally ventilated buildings. This study investigates the impact of building design and occupant behaviour on thermal comfort in government office buildings in Mannar City. Case study was analysed based on orientation and height. Objective assessment and subjective assessment were collected. Thermal comfort was analysed using ASHRAE scales, PMV, and AMV. Occupant behaviour, including window opening, fan usage, and clothing adjustments, was examined. Results indicate a disparity between occupant comfort and building performance. While occupants employed adaptive strategies, the buildings exhibited thermal discomfort. The study highlights the need for integrating occupant-centered design and sustainable strategies to optimize energy efficiency and enhance occupant well-being. Future research should explore retrofitting strategies to improve overall building performance.

Browse

Recent Submissions