This picture doesn't show all of the features and awesomeness that the lab has to offer.
This house/lab is off the grid and off the chain. Doesn't it look cool? Let's go through some of the features.
1. The V-shape of the roof allows for rain collection and transportation to a holding tank which is used to flush the toilet and will eventually be used for irrigation.
2. On the front side of the roof is a collection of solar thermal collectors. These panels are not to be confused with solar panels. Unlike solar panels, solar thermal collectors collect heat by absorbing sunlight. The heat is then used to heat up the water for the facility.
3. On the back side of the roof are the more familiar solar panels. These assemblies of photovoltaic cells collect solar energy from the sun and turn it into electricity through the photovoltaic effect. Don't know what that is? Neither do I... check this out:
4. Behind the house is a small wind turbine. The turbine transforms kinetic energy (the turbine spinning) into mechanical energy that we can use inside the house.
5. Also behind the house are six geothermal heat pumps. These heat pumps use the mechanics of the Rankine Cycle to push water 250 feet down in the ground where it collects heat from the Barnett Shale, then pumps it up to the earth's surface where the heat is extracted and used to heat the house.
6. Radiant flooring is used to heat the house. Unlike traditional air vents, radiant flooring sends the heat through the floor where it is dispersed throughout the house. This option is healthier for people who have allergies as the dust and mold is not being blown around the house.
7. There are gadgets galore! Thirty thermocouples are placed throughout the house to take measurements of the temperature and humidity inside the house. The two rooms are equipped with daylight sensors - these things can tell when it's bright out and will dim/brighten the LEDs accordingly.
