Advances in Architectural Engineering

Architectural engineering, also known as building engineering, is an engineering discipline that deals with the technological aspects and multidisciplinary approach to planning, design, construction, operations and maintenance of buildings, such as analysis and integrated design of environmental systems (energy conservation, HVAC, plumbing, lighting, fire protection, acoustics, vertical transportation, electrical power systems), structural systems, construction systems, behavior and properties of building components and materials, and construction management. Built on a legacy of thousands of years of gradual innovation in construction technology and scientific advancement, architectural engineering applies the latest scientific knowledge and technologies to the design of buildings. The goal is to engineer high-performance buildings that are sustainable, resilient, and economically viable, that ensure the safety, health, comfort, and productivity of occupants. Technological progress has introduced many innovations and technologies in the field of building industry. From reduction of greenhouse gas emissions to the construction of resilient buildings, architectural engineering is at the forefront of addressing several major challenges of the 21st century. It also promotes sustainable practices by lowering energy consumption and occupants’ carbon footprint, so much so that architectural engineering has been identified as the discipline with the highest potential to combat climate change. This book ‘Advances in Architectural Engineering’ contains four chapters which introduce some scientific methods and state-of-the-art building technologies and systems that may be beneficial to the Architects, building engineers and building construction industry professionals.