Introduction to building performance simulation

Introduction to building performance simulation

Aims

Given the (increasing) complexity of energy/ environmental systems in buildings, computer modeling and simulation is emerging as a viable approach to design and performance evaluation. This class aims to give an introduction of the theoretical and operational principles underlying this new technology. By a series of (oral and self-study) lectures as outlined below, the class introduces the concepts, assumptions and limitations which underlie the methods currently used to appraise the energy performance of buildings. The subjects are developed from basic principles assuming limited knowledge of computers and application software.

Key concepts

building performance analysis tools vs design tools;
overview building performance simulation tools;
hands-on experience web mining;
hands-on experience integrated building simulation software;
hands-on experience Unix operating system;

Class structure

As detailed in the schedule below, the class comprises 5 hours formal lectures / instruction and 23 hours supervised practical work. At least an additional 28 hours self-study will be required for completion of the assignments. In essence the class comprises 2 main parts:

Part 1: overview of building performance analysis / design tools
From the lectures and from self-study web-based course material you will get an understanding of low energy analysis / design tools. You will see applications and appreciate capabilities and limitations of a range of tools. Although the class provides an understanding of tool capabilities, it does not attempt to rigorously categorize, present definitive case studies or recommend a particular tool, but rather attempts to show you the key concepts involved with a variety of tools and their possible applications.

Part 2: practical training course building performance simulation software
This training course comprises sets of practical exercises which will make you familiar with the main features of a specific building performance simulation software, such as IES-VE, VABI-VA114 or the ESP-r environment. As you progress these exercises your goal will be to increase your understanding of these entities and how they relate to the built environment. The exercises are designed to progress you from the category of novice to specialist over a period of time which will depend on your aptitude and stamina. The course was designed in a way that all the exercises are formulated in a software independent way and you are able to accomplish all of them using any simulation package.

Assessment

Continuous assessment based on pro-active participation of scheduled activities (25%) - lectures, instructions and practical work - and successful completion of a series of assignments (75%). The assignments will be encountered at various points throughout the course of the class. Please submit your assignment results by email to the staff member below. Make sure that your answers are brief and concise.

Staff involved

Class schedule and resources

WEEK	LECTURE / INSTRUCTION
1	INTRODUCTION BUILDING SIMULATION
	tools overview
2	tools overview
	practical training
3	tools overview
	practical training
4	INTEGRATED SIMULATION: HOW & WHAT
	practical training
5	tools overview
	practical training
6	practical training
	practical training
7	practical training
	practical training
8	SIMULATION & DESIGN
	practical training
9	practical training
	practical training
10	practical training
	practical training
11	practical training
	practical training
12	QUALITY ASSURANCE IN SIMULATION
	practical training
13	practical training
	practical training
14	practical training
	practical training

**Additional Class Resources**
WEB SEARCH TIPS
BUILDING ENERGY SOFTWARE TOOLS DIRECTORY
BUILDING ENERGY RESOURCES ON THE WEB
GLOSSARY OF TERMS IN BUILDING PERFORMANCE SIMULATION
BUILDING SIMULATION DICTIONARIES IN VARIOUS LANGUAGES
DEMO DYNAMIC MULTIZONAL HEAT TRANSFER (PHYSIBEL - CAPSOL)