To get accurate results fast, the geometry of analysis models is usually simplified. How detailed do the geometry and underlying assumptions need to be? Model 2 (lighting levels): Color reflection, solar absorption, transparency, refractive index, and specularity for walls, floors, ceilings, and windows.Model 1 (shadow study): Just the geometry and the sunpath data may suffice.Early-stage energy model: Assume that the program defaults for materials and operating schedules are valid.In detailed energy analysis, these parameters are tweaked to more closely approximate your actual design. In early conceptual phases, these assumptions are very rough and often based on default values embedded in the modeling software. Models need to be “fully described” for the energy simulation to produce results. Sometimes you need to add to this information in the simulation tool (like Green Building Studio or Trane Trace). This information is passed to simulation engines using file formats like gbXML. The energy sources available at the building's location (i.e.The building services used to meet energy demand (i.e.thermal and visual properties of window properties) The thermal performance of that geometry (i.e.In energy modeling, the results are based on: For example, you'll also need the thermal and/or visual properties of the materials. To analyze energy use, thermal comfort, or visual comfort, you'll need more than just geometry. The required inputs are based on the type of analysis. Meet as much of your lighting requirements with daylight alone.Ī description of some of the input data needed for different forms of analysis Model 2: Footcandle measurements on a 1 ft 2 grid at the summer and winter solstice.Model 1: Rough visual images showing the boundaries of the shadows at the summer and winter solstice.Early-stage energy model: Annual energy use intensity (kWhr/year/m^2).You can then use these metrics to compare design options against each other. You should always ask yourself how you will measure the success or failure of your designs. The desired output depends on what you're trying to analyze and optimize. What's the desired output of the analysis? Lighting model: Perhaps one simple model for visualizing shadows, and another more detailed model to measure light levels.Early-stage energy model: One simple model to measure annual energy use.But, by the same token, you can lose time if you try to run analyses on models that aren’t built for it. You can save time if you the geometry and data from a single building information model, and pass this information between tools effectively. different aspects of lighting design different precision in energy analysis). Sometimes you'll even need different models to analyze the same goal at different stages of design (i.e. You may need different models to analyze different goals (i.e. How many different analysis models do I need?
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Later-on, detailed energy models can help to answer questions about the systems that meet the building's energy demands (HVAC, lighting). In early-stages, conceptual energy modeling helps you to answer big questions about the building's form.
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Experienced energy modelers know how to optimize their models for fast analysis and hone-in quickly on the parameters that matter most. Because energy modeling is a holistic view of the building, is a great way of “keeping score” and seeing the combined effects of the different elements of your design.Įxperimentation, iteration, and parametric analysis using energy modeling can help optimize your design and can help you understand the most important energy efficiency measures. What are energy models and when should I use them?Įnergy models are an example of an analysis model that is built specifically to help you calculate your building's expected energy demand, and how much it costs to meet that energy demand.Įnergy modeling happens throughout the design process from concept through post-construction.
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These models should be more detailed, and contain both precise geometry and material properties.
![rhino to ecotect rhino to ecotect](https://i.pinimg.com/originals/11/9e/05/119e0590f10c1d4033c1af5ef4d0c321.png)
This model can be very basic, with only conceptual geometry, basic schedules, and roughly defined spaces. An early-stage energy model to answer big questions about orientation, form, and macro-level occupancy effects.What kind of analysis is most valuable? What kind of model do I need?ĭifferent analysis techniques require different types of models.