Terracool
Thesis project
To design a new window air conditioner breaking the monotony of current industrial looking air conditioners in the market. Identifying and solving a major issue associated with using it on a daily basis making the overall experience more user-friendly.
Thesis project / 6 months / Individual
Problem area
Most modern air conditioners produce gallons of water on an average every day due to condensation. More than a third of the global population own an air conditioner, resulting in millions of gallons of water being wasted. Air-conditioners require proper plumbing to drain down the condensed water but not all buildings have a dedicated structure, this results in mold formation. Uncontrolled mold can lead to serious respiratory illness, eye irritation, and skin reactions.
Conceptualization
Based on the insight some concepts were sketched, the concepts were made keeping in mind the future and how would a vase look like in the future. The design should complement the outdoor architecture of houses and must look like a part of it.
Detailing
Final detailing was done where the design was realized in 3d. The design is a modern representation of a flower vase found inside a home. The overall design language is made to appeal the younger audience with its minimal approach and hightled accents. The idea was to have something clean and green to look at everytime one looks out of their window.
Solution
The condensed water coming in from the condenser coil gets collected in the water tank below. The stored water is then transferred by a pump to the container above which is housing the plants. The pump uses the same motor shaft of the fan to transfer water. The plant container is interchangeable for cleaning and transferring plants. By collecting the water it drastically saves the amount of water that was wasted earlier. This also keeps the building and surrounding area free of mold. The greenery not only looks good to the eyes but is also beneficial for the environment. The heat from the air-conditioner also helps in germination. One can grow their own vegetables here and this can become a potential system for vertical farming. It hides the ugly vents found in traditional A/C's and compliments the houses on the outside to look like a small garden.
Environmental scenario
Some environmental renders which show how the air conditioner would like when installed, from the inside of of houses to the outdoor architecture, the design compliments neatly with the structures to make it feel more homely.
