Fresh from her successful Ph.D. defense, Dr. Kathryn Hinkelman (Katy) from Pennsylvania State University visited the Building Systems Engineering Group (BSEG) on May 26. She led a compelling seminar titled “Equation-Based Modeling and Ecosystem Biomimicry of Integrated Building Energy Systems.”

In her presentation, Katy discussed the importance of system integration for achieving net-zero emission energy services. The discussion was centered around the role of district energy systems in facilitating community-level integration, boosting energy efficiency, and enabling renewable energy opportunities. Through the lens of ecosystem biomimicry, she presented projects modeled using the equation-based Modelica language. She explored the innovative approach of applying network analysis methods from biology in dynamic engineering systems.

The BSEG group extends its warmest congratulations to Katy on her remarkable achievement in earning her Ph.D. Her seminar provided valuable insights into integrated building energy systems and the potential of ecosystem biomimicry in this field, offering fresh perspectives for advancing sustainable building design and management. We look forward to her continued contributions in this vital field.