The "Clean UBC Okanagan’s Air" project aims to improve indoor air quality by using innovative wall-mounted air filters with C-Polar’s technology. These discreet units reduce harmful airborne particles and pathogens while enhancing energy efficiency. The project has potential applications in homes, hospitals, and classrooms beyond UBC Okanagan.
Interviewees:
Sunny Li, Professor - Mechanical Engineering (UBCO).
Jonathan Little, Professor – Faculty of Health and Social Development - School of Health and Exercise Science (UBCO).
Jake Winkler, Research Coordinator - Faculty of Health and Social Development - School of Health and Exercise Science (UBCO).
Martin Gibb – UBC Facilities (UBCO).
Roger Bizzotto – UBC Facilities (UBCO).
The team collectively shared their insights and answered our questions.
Q: How did your previous research or expertise lead to the development of the ART devices?
The development of the ART device was a collaborative effort that incorporates knowledge and insights from engineering, medicine, health science, human factors, and end users. The in Airborne Disease Transmission Research Cluster (ADTRC) is a group of interdisciplinary researchers and community members and together our members created a solution that is both effective and practical.
Q: How does this project align with UBC Okanagan’s goals for sustainability and public health?
The CLL team will be exploring whether the implementation of ART devices in classrooms can reduce the load on HVAC systems, thereby reducing energy costs and consumption. This potential reduction aligns with UBC Okanagan's sustainability goals by contributing to a greener campus. Additionally, by improving indoor air quality, the ART devices support public health initiatives, creating safer environments that reduce exposure to airborne contaminants, which is a key public health.
Q: What are the anticipated benefits of using ART devices compared to traditional air filtration systems in various settings?
The ART device offers several advantages over traditional air filtration systems. They are designed to be integrated into the built environment and be modular in nature. This means the device can be sized and positioned correctly for a room to provide the appropriate clean air delivery rate (CADR) all while being completely quiet. Additionally, the devices are visually appealing and can be customized with artwork from local artists, enhancing the room ambiance. These features make the ART device a unique, functional, and culturally engaging alternative to standard air filters.
Q: How do you envision the ART devices being adopted beyond UBC Okanagan, such as in public institutions or private homes?
We envision ART devices being widely adopted in various indoor environments, including office spaces, hospital rooms, classrooms, and homes. Their current design is particularly suited for smaller rooms accommodating fewer than 40 people, making them ideal for such settings. Large auditoriums or highly populated spaces on the other hand may require additional systems or modifications to fully benefit from the ART devices. Our goal is to see these devices as a standard part of air quality management in both public and private sectors, offering a scalable solution that fits diverse needs.
Q: Can you share any preliminary findings or data on how the ART devices have impacted air quality in the spaces where they’ve been tested?
Preliminary findings from the CLL project indicate that ART devices reduce airborne particles from external sources, such as smoke, and internal sources, like bioaerosols emitted by humans, even when HVAC systems are running. This suggests that ART devices enhance air quality by addressing both outdoor pollutants and indoor contaminants. We are continuing to investigate the influence of device placement on effectiveness and are also studying how ART devices may impact classroom dynamics, such as student attention and engagement, to further optimize their deployment in educational settings.
Q: What future innovations or improvements are you considering for the ART devices to enhance their performance or scalability?
Several innovations are being considered to enhance the performance and scalability of ART devices. One area of focus is integrating smart technologies, such as Wi-Fi/Bluetooth connectivity, to enable remote control and automation of the devices based on occupancy levels or particulate matter thresholds. Additionally, we are exploring design improvements like an easy-to-replace filter system or a notification system for filter changes, which would enhance user experience and maintenance. These upgrades aim to make ART devices more adaptable and user-friendly, broadening their applicability in various settings and ensuring optimal performance.