Design and Development of a Biomimetic Adaptive Ventilation Skin Inspired by Beehive Thermoregulation for Net-Zero Energy Buildings

Abstract

The building sector contributes significantly to global energy consumption, with ventilation systems often accounting for a substantial share of this demand. Traditional static façades and mechanical ventilation strategies can be energy-intensive and lack responsiveness to changing environmental and occupancy conditions. This study proposes a Biomimetic Adaptive Ventilation Skin (BAVS), inspired by honeybee thermoregulation, specifically their collective fanning behaviour, to enhance energy performance and indoor environmental quality in buildings targeting net-zero energy operation. A mixed-methods approach integrating EnergyPlus simulations, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modelling, and prototype testing was employed. Results demonstrate that BAVS reduces annual energy use intensity by approximately 20% compared to a static façade, improves ventilation rates to 2.5 air changes per hour, and lowers average CO₂ concentrations to around 400 ppm. The system further achieved a 40% reduction in actuation energy relative to conventional mechanical ventilation and increased thermal comfort compliance from 60% to 92% of occupied hours under ASHRAE 55 adaptive criteria. These findings validate the feasibility of translating biological thermoregulation principles into adaptive façade systems and highlight BAVS as a practical strategy for improving energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and occupant comfort in net-zero building applications.