[Bldg-sim] Should I learn Modelica?

[Michael Wetter]

Jacob

I second Marcus' comments and like to add the following:

The page
http://simulationresearch.lbl.gov/modelica/userGuide/gettingStarted.htmlhas
some pointers for how to get started with Modelica.
The tutorials on
http://simulationresearch.lbl.gov/modelica/releases/latest/help/Buildings_Examples_Tutorial.htmlshow
you what is involved in composing a model using existing component
models. Depending on your application, you may still need to develop some
own component models (typically by modifying existing models). In my view,
since you are a researcher, this is time well spent; Modelica is a language
whose user base is fast growing and the principle of equation-based
modeling is adopted by many system simulation programs.

For modeling building envelops, Modelica has currently limitations for
buildings with many rooms in terms of run-time. You therefore may want to
consider modeling the building envelop in E+, and linking it to Modelica
through the External Interface of E+, either through Functional Mockup
Units or through the Building Controls Virtual Test Bed.

All the best,

Michael


On Mon, Mar 11, 2013 at 1:23 PM, Marcus <jones.0bj3 at gmail.com> wrote:

> Hi Jacob,
>
> Just my 2 cents;
>
> Disclaimer; I have only had contact with Modelica (some training,
> conference, browsing), and much more TRNSYS experience.
>
> If you were a consultant - looking to simulate new and existing buildings
> and recommend energy retrofits for example, I would recommend TRNSYS over
> Modelica. But because you need to create component models (no escaping
> programming sorry), and because you are a researcher, you can definately
> consider Modelica.
>
> You're right, it's possible to do this in either TRNSYS or Modelica. The
> learning curve for both would be comparable, in their own quirky ways.
> Creating new components is also similar effort for both depending on the
> component. You will definitely have to learn some programming concepts in
> either case. I think however Modelica components have at least the
> *potential* to be cleaner and more elegant than TRNSYS code.
>
> TRNSYS has more component models, but you should really define exactly
> what models you really need and compare both tools! Also check external
> component libraries - TESS, Modelon...
>
> Creating a complex building shape with windows, zones, etc. is probably
> much easier in TRNSYS and it's 3D interface, so if you have complex
> geometry, +1 point for TRNSYS.
>
> Also important is training and local experts to ask about strange errors,
> I should think you are well situated to get support for Modelica!
>
> And then you must also consider the longevity and impact of your research
> - Modelica is... fresher?
>
> Cheers,
>
> Marcus
> --
> Marcus Jones,  M.Sc., LEED®AP BD+C
> *Freelance energy consultant*
> *Vienna, Austria*
>
>
>
> On Mon, Mar 11, 2013 at 9:10 AM, Jacob Lindblom <jacob.lindblom at ivl.se>wrote:
>
>>  Dear all,****
>>
>> I like to model building energy use in an environment which does not
>> limit me to pre-defined input data fields and keep code hidden in a black
>> boxes. I like to have the option to go beyond the interface and be able to
>> model odd design of buildings and HVAC solutions. However, I am not a
>> computer programmer and why invent the entire wheel again. Therefor I look
>> for a tool/environment which already has some building modules. I have been
>> thinking about TRNSYS. ****
>>
>> The Modelica language seems also very interesting. BERKELY lab has some
>> building component library and moreover do I get the impression that
>> Modelica is relatively easy to use and learn and do perhaps not require
>> Master degree in programming to master. ****
>>
>> Comments are welcome****
>>
>> Best regards****
>>
>> Jacob Lindblom, B.Sc. constructional engineering, M.Sc. Energy engineering
>> ****
>>
>> IVL Swedish Environmental Research Institute, Climate & Sustainable
>> Cities – building dep.****
>>
>> ** **
>>
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