[Equest-users] Voodoo (Enlightenment)

[Karen Walkerman]

One of my favorite approaches when things aren't designed yet is to make a
responsible assumption and use it in the model.  With the model results, my
clients get a list of assumptions and inputs.  This way you can use the
model to push the designers to create a responsible design.  The lighting
designer hasn't finished designing yet? OK, enter 0.6 w/sf in your model
push them to get their power density down while still providing enough
light!  You can do the same with the building envelope, mechanical systems,
etc.  If things are not finished, this also opens the opportunity for you to
get involved and help the design team create the design.  Show them the
difference with model results between x and y.  Show them how good their
building can be, if they want it to.  This does mean that the model has to
be re-worked when it's time to submit LEED documentation to reflect what is
actually provided, but it's a small price to pay.

--
Karen

On Thu, May 20, 2010 at 11:45 AM, Carol Gardner <cmg750 at gmail.com> wrote:

> Go with god, son. If you want a double check on whether you made a
> reasonable change vs gamed the system, hire one of us peer reviewers.
> Carol
>
>
> On Thu, May 20, 2010 at 7:29 AM, Eurek, John S NWO <
> John.S.Eurek at usace.army.mil> wrote:
>
>> As the one who started this post, I must say I have learned a lot.
>>
>> Thank you very much.
>>
>> What I have learned.
>>
>> 1. I have been misusing energy modeling.  I have been trying to use energy
>> modeling for the sole purpose of earning LEED points.
>>
>> 2. I use it late in the design.  Late in the design I have found it easier
>> to
>> tweak my model instead of my design. (in order to get the desired number
>> of
>> points)
>>        (I do have integrity, so it kills me to "game" the system. But with
>> so few rules it wasn't hard to rationalize inputs. I go home not feeling
>> proud.)
>>
>> 3. When the goal is a realistic energy modeling, a very good model can be
>> created.  When you are simply trying to reach compliance with some code,
>> the
>> system can be gamed. This misuse and gaming of energy modeling is a waste
>> of
>> time, but this is the users (MY) fault.
>>
>> 4. I need to get the other departments to realize that this isn't MY
>> (mechanical engineer) energy model, but OUR energy model.  (I'm trying to
>> get
>> my model done and the electrical engineer still doesn't have his light
>> loads
>> and the Architect hasn't have a final roof design.)
>>
>> I'm like a monkey hammering with a wrench.  The frustration was a
>> misunderstanding of the tool.
>>
>> I hope I can get the other departments on-board and maybe start using the
>> model as a design tool as it was intended.
>> To those who are being asked to misuse modeling, it is rough.
>>
>> Once again, my frustration and stress with energy modeling was growing to
>> the
>> point it disturbed my sleep.  Having this discussion helped.  The most
>> helpful was all the responses I received about the benefits of the proper
>> use
>> of energy modeling, and empathy from others who know the pain of trying to
>> create a model just to earn points.
>>
>>
>> Thank you all,
>>
>> John Eurek
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>
>
>
> --
> Carol Gardner PE
>
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