Innovative Thermostat BRYS Enhances Comfort in Extreme Temperatures
The BRYS thermostat, developed by Lenneke Kuijer, keeps homes up to nine degrees cooler in summer and helps bodies adapt to temperatures between 17 and 28 degrees Celsius.
Development and Research
Lenneke Kuijer, an assistant professor at the Department of Industrial Design, Eindhoven University of Technology, spearheaded the development of the BRYS thermostat with a Veni grant. Her research aimed to challenge traditional HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) beliefs, focusing on Dutch households’ comfort during hot weather. The innovative thermostat is a result of rigorous scientific research and a deep understanding of human adaptability to varying temperatures.
Collaboration and Innovation
Kuijer’s project involved collaboration with partners such as Havensteder and Itho Daalderop. Together, they worked on unconventional designs that inspired the practical application of the BRYS thermostat. The research emphasized personalized and energy-efficient HVAC solutions, questioning the standard room temperature norms. Kuijer believes that designers have a duty to question fixed beliefs, highlighting the human body’s ability to adapt to a wide range of temperatures.
Functionality and Features
The BRYS thermostat offers users the ability to customize settings based on their home’s layout, providing comfort naturally. It advises users on actions to maintain optimal comfort by integrating weather forecasts and indoor measurements. This innovative approach not only enhances comfort but also trains the body to adapt to temperatures ranging from 17 to 28 degrees Celsius, promoting energy efficiency and reducing reliance on traditional HVAC systems.
Industry Impact and Future Prospects
The BRYS thermostat is set to influence future thermostat designs significantly. Elbert Stoffer, Chief of Operations at Itho Daalderop, acknowledged the industry’s challenge in meeting user demand for stable temperatures across seasons. The ongoing development by research partners like TNO and the open access to designs under a Creative Commons license ensure that the thermostat will continue to evolve, prioritizing resident needs over industry demands.
A Step Towards Sustainable Living
The thermostat’s development aligns with broader efforts to combat climate change by promoting energy-efficient and sustainable living solutions. As smart thermostats like BRYS gain popularity, users can expect significant energy savings and enhanced comfort in their homes. The initiative’s focus on summer comfort, coupled with the dissemination of research findings, encourages a shift towards greener HVAC solutions.