The site for our prototype is in San Luis Obispo, California. We are constructing a prefab 450 square foot one bedroom/studio in the backyard of a lot centered in San Luis Obispo.

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This prototype is being constructed to verify the EcoFab concepts. The five design variables were determined through an extensive spreadsheet which takes into account recommended glazing area ratios for passive solar design, annual heating and cooling degree days, solar heat gains for a given location, latitude, solar saving fraction (SSF) values which correlate to thermal storage and area, heat loss through the thermal envelope, infiltration rates, occupancy rates, ventilation requirements, light and equipment heat gains. To sum it up, we have been working on a large spreadsheet that allows us to input a location and climate and it outputs our five design variables. Pretty neat huh?

 

If this prototype works - hopefully, considering the years we have spent on calculations and building design - it will be used to market this concept, assuming it is aesthetically pleasing (yes, this is shallow, but must hold true to be a viable market contender) and affordable.