[Bldg-sim] Building Energy Modeling Guidelines

Jon Hand jon at esru.strath.ac.uk
Mon Mar 5 02:38:20 PST 2012


One of the better handbooks which cover all aspects of professional use
of simulation software is the CIBSE AM-11.  Checklists, data sources, discussions
of methodology and not specific to any particular software.  And AM-11
is currently being updated so there should be a new version out in the mid-term.

Regarding documentation and guides focused on code compliance such
as the earlier reference to SBEM in the UK:  Compliance is a sub-set
goal for the use of simulation -  focused on comparison with a specific
set of rules.  These rules are not necessarily well matched if the purpose
of simulation is to enquire about how a design actually works.  

Many practitioners have become confused over time about the differences
between models defined for purposes of compliance and design.  Using a
compliance tool and compliance rule set for design is a decision which
may constrain your deliverables. 

Much of what we can observe in a building and measure via simulation 
does not fit in a compliance rule-set.  Goals differ.  The extents of the
underlying physics which apply differ.  Check out what has to be
stripped-out of an otherwise well-formed design model to confirm with 
compliance rule sets.  Mass flow networks no, CFD no way, explicit
representations of raised floors, ceiling voids, buffer spaces and
explicit mass within rooms are a few of the issues which are not 
discussed or forbidden.  

Regards, Jon Hand, ESRU Glasgow
 
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