Previous research and development has ultimately culminated in the five ecoSystem variables. These five principles of design, "the variables" as we will refer to them, are the medium through which extensive climatic analysis can then translate into applicable, achievable and real building components. These variables can be, and as per the concept of EcoFab should be, unique to each project yet easily achievable through prefabrication processes.
Necessary glazing areas vary greatly from project to project. Southern glazing can vary from about 8% to 50% of the floor area depending on climate, geographic location, and building typology. Proper glazing design is critical to managing heat gains and losses in a building.
Shading devices are important elements to help regulate solar gain obtained through glazing. Many methods of shading are available to respond to both climatic nuances as well as architectural styles.
Thermal mass, though sometimes difficult to integrate into prefab projects, is important in many climates to store heat and mitigate diurnal temperature swings.
With all of the strategic management of heat through other variable means, proper insulation produces a tighter thermal envelope, thus maintaining that hard earned heat or coolth.
Though the other four variables will do the bulk of climate response and comfort management, in many climates it will still be necessary to integrate some means of supplementary system. These systems include PV arrays, rain catchment systems, and radiant floor heating to name a few.