Research
Newell Instruments can conduct research for your organization to answer questions and reduce uncertainty needed for your activities related to energy efficient residences. We develop computer simulation models that span basic heat and mass transport processes to whole building energy systems. Our experimental activities mirror our modeling capabilities with laboratory and field testing projects.
What aspect of a residence are you interested in? Are you are trying to understand a specific appliance or the whole house? We have developed new refrigerator technologies such as rapid ice cube makers, energy efficient refrigerator defrost systems, and a novel refrigerator evaporator that reduces material and refrigerant charge. Are you interested in new technologies for washing clothes, drying clothes, washing dishes, heating water, cooking, or almost anything else that impacts the operation of a residence? We have experience in all of these areas. Our Equinox House project demonstrates the integration of these individual areas into a whole house that is fully powered by solar energy (please see our Equinox House features sections to read about many of these topics).
Newell Instruments is known for its “outside-the-box” thinking and ability to develop measurement techniques and analysis methods. For example, how much moisture does a building absorb and desorb and how does that impact comfort and energy demand? Our Equinox House has a moisture absorptance of 18kg of water per %RH change. This moisture mass, similar to thermal mass, is an important aspect of building comfort control. Incidentally, the thermal massiveness of Equinox House results in a thermal time constant that is over 100 hours, and that’s without adding any extra mass beyond what is normally needed for construction. Our February 2011 ASHRAE Journal article describes our moisture mass measurements and analyses in more detail.
We can help you define a project as well as the pathways to practical, cost-effective solutions.
