Maze of Innovation

FlowFunnel – Passive cooling panel

This user-controlled facade system combats urban heat by using Venturi-shaped funnels and evaporative cooling to enhance indoor ventilation with minimal energy use, while glass panels maintain daylight and reduce heat gain.

Organization
TU Delft, Bucky Lab

Project information

The urban heat island effect intensifies the temperature of cities, increasing the demand for cooling systems. This user-controlled facade system utilizes the Venturi effect to enhance indoor ventilation through funnel-shaped structures. This cooling system aims to reduce mechanical energy consumption, promoting a sustainable, circular, and durable design. Warm air from outside enters the funnels, which are designed to accelerate airflow through pressure changes. This accelerated air is cooled using an evaporative cooling system. Water is supplied from above and dispersed through small holes at the funnel’s end, allowing it to mix with the passing air, resulting in cooler airflow. Opening the window behind the panel lets this cool air flow into the room. The use of glass for the panel preserves natural daylight and minimizes heat conduction, preventing significant warming under direct sunlight.