Osaka Gas Experimental Residential Complex

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Remodeling Experiment | Outline of Phase 2 Experiments |

Remodeling Experiment

NEXT21's Construction System

In the NEXT21 Project, we adopted a construction System that can deal with future increased in demand for remodeling of multi-unit dwellings.

1. The basic building structure and the dwelling separate construction method

In the NEXT21 Project, we used a construction method based on the idea that a structure's steel or wooden frame is constructed separately from the dwelling. By using this method, the dwelling can be remodeled without affecting the basic building structure, which has long-term durability. Additionally, this permits a certain level of freedom in interior redesign.

2. Systems building

By standardizing and using pre-fabricated items for both exterior walls and other components, components can be easily replaced or moved. Both exterior walls and other important components can therefore be easily moved and recycled.

3. Flexible piping system

Traditionally, the space under 3-dimensional streets (equivalent to common aisles) was used as piping space, with flexible piping employed. The NEXT21 Project permits major changes in the layout of water-related facilities.

"A Sound House" for Raising Children

We asked four families currently raising children to participate in this experiment. As a result, home spaces were designed specifically for the comfortable rearing of children.

(Before remodeling)

(After remodeling)

Remodeling Experiment

Large-scale remodeling, including outer walls and water-related facilities.

Additional Materials and Equipment Used to Create "A Sound House"

• Diatomite Panel
  Features ; This functional interior material has moisture absorption and discharge rates five-fold those of
  plaster board, as well as humidity-control and deodorizing characteristics. It is attached by screws to
  either wooden or lightweight steel beams.
  Locations: Ceilings, walls (approximately 200m²)
• Paint(ANTIQUE PASCA)
  Features ; This paint's finish resembles lime plaster in appearance, but the substrate's moisture
  absorption and discharge rates are preserved. Paint components, completely inorganic, have no effect on
  the human body
  Locations; Ceilings, walls(for diatomaceous earth panels) (approximately 87m²)
• Paint (OSMO COLOR)
  Features : This impregnating paint, which preserves the moisture absorption and discharge ratios of all
  wood and diatomaceous earthpanels, is made from natural vegetable oil, with a ratio of only 15% solvent.
  Locations: Floors, ceilings, fittings (approximately 460m²)
• Flooring
  Features : Made of pure oak. Since no plywood is used, no harmful substances such as formaldehyde are
  discharged to the air. Nothing other than nails is used to bind materials together.
  Locations: Floors (approximately 60m²)

1. 24-hour Ventilation and Air-conditioning System (VAV)
   This is the NEXT21 Project's basic ventilation system. With a constant total enthalpy heat exchange volume
   of 100 - 150m³/h, the home unit's inner temperature, including nonresidential spaces such as sanitary
   areas, is kept stable.
2. Built-in Type Dish Washer/Dryer
   This dish washer/dryer is set into the wall next to the kitchen sink, for easier insertion or removal of dishes.
3. Water Purifier
   This water purifier contains activated carbon fibers (ACF) for fast absorption and through filtering of fine
   contaminants;granular activated carbon for filtering larger sized contaminants; and hollow fiber membrane,
   which excels in trapping finer contaminants and bacteria. Its purifying ability therefore exceeds that of
   conventional filter units.
4. Automatic Bathtub Washing System
   With one push of the remote control switch, the bathtub is cleaned automatically, through a sequence of
   operations from draining to bathtub cleaning. With this system, the tub need only be hand-washed once a
   week or so, thereby cutting down on housekeeping work.
5. Heating and Drying Equipment
   This bathroom heater/drier, installed in the unit bath section, warms up the bathroom. Warm air is also
   blown out from below, raising the floor temperature for uniform, temperature distribution in the bathroom.
6. Tatami Floor Heating
   We have developed a new type of tatami mat which, though made of actual tatami material, has hot water
   pipes built-in, thereby drastically improving heat transfer efficiency. The room temperature warms quickly,
   thereby minimizing heat loss.
7. Kitchen Computer
   With this computer, the home-owner is linked to the Internet,and can access the Osaka Gas home page,
   "Bob and Angie's Kitchen," and retrieve cooking recipes.
8. Garbage Crushing/Transporting Device
   This device compacts kitchen garbage and conveys it to the "AQUALOOP" system located underground,
   eliminating the need to keep garbage inside the kitchen. This improves the kitchen hygiene, and keeps
   interior air clean.

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