[Date Prev][Date Next][Thread Prev][Thread Next][Date Index][Thread Index]
RE: [EnergyPlus_Support] EPlus learning curve
Daniel
In answer to your question about learning curves and reliability of the existing
beta graphical interfaces to EnergyPlus:
The DesignBuilder user interface (www.designbuilder.co.uk) has been specifically
developed to minimise the time required to learn building thermal simulation,
and from the feedback received so far, people are finding it easy to use. The
geometry of the building is defined by geometrically laying down the building
perimeter by defining the position of the corners with the mouse. The completed
perimeter is automatically extruded upwards to create a space. This space can
then be partitioned up into zones by sketching partition walls. It allows a
building model to be created very rapidly. The process is illustrated in a demo
on the web site.
Regarding reliability of beta test software, DesignBuilder Version 0.3.5 seems
to be reliable in the sense that it is generating correct EnergyPlus geometry,
construction, glazing, casual gains gains and HVAC data. There are limitations
(limited HVAC and geometry options) and stability/reliability is not guaranteed.
So if you plan to use this or any other beta test user interface to EnergyPlus
for important work you should check the intermediate EnergyPlus input/output
data carefully before using the results.
A new DesignBuilder beta test version will be released this summer with a more
versatile building modeller, compatibility with EnergyPlus version 1.2 and many
new features.
Andy Tindale
DesignBuilder Software
-----Original Message-----
From: Daniel Bourque [mailto:daniel.bourque@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx]
Sent: 21 May 2004 21:08
To: EnergyPlus_Support@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Subject: [EnergyPlus_Support] EPlus learning curve
Hello,
I know there was a question a short while ago from someone (an
architect, I believe) who wanted to learn to use EPlus, but this one is
coming from someone who already uses commercial software to size
equipment and perform energy simulations. I work for a mechanical
contracting firm, and we do a lot of our engineering in-house using
Carrier's Hourly Analysis Program (HAP) software. During a training
session for EE4 (uses DOE2), the instructor said that he had
investigated many sizing and simulation packages, and that HAP was "one
of the better ones". That being said, I think I have a fairly good
knowledge of the ins and outs of the software and how to "tweak" it to
model buildings that don't match one of the available options.
Having been made aware of EPlus a short while ago, I have been reading
the list items, and it seems like EPlus is a lot more flexible and can
simulate a greater variety of systems as well as be able to graphically
visualise the spaces and results. My question would be: EPlus seems to
no longer be in the testing phase, and is solid/robust/reliable enough
for commercial use. However, the proposed interfaces are still in Beta
mode, and from my understanding, space data has to either be entered
manually or through one of the data converters (I'll admit I havn't read
ALL the documentation yet or tried all the associated applications). If
this is the case, what would be the learning curve required for someone
who already has experience modelling buildings to make the switch?
Also, are the beta graphical interfaces reliable enough to rely on
exclusively, or is converting data from existing drawings the best way
to go? Has anyone used HAP and can compare it to EPlus?
Any suggestions or comments are greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Daniel Bourque
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
The primary EnergyPlus web site is found at:
http://www.energyplus.gov
The group web site is:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/EnergyPlus_Support/
Attachments are not allowed -- please post any files to the appropriate folder
in the Files area of the Support Web Site.
Yahoo! Groups Links
------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Sponsor --------------------~-->
Yahoo! Domains - Claim yours for only $14.70
http://us.click.yahoo.com/Z1wmxD/DREIAA/yQLSAA/dkFolB/TM
--------------------------------------------------------------------~->
The primary EnergyPlus web site is found at:
http://www.energyplus.gov
The group web site is:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/EnergyPlus_Support/
Attachments are not allowed -- please post any files to the appropriate folder in the Files area of the Support Web Site.
Yahoo! Groups Links
<*> To visit your group on the web, go to:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/EnergyPlus_Support/
<*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
EnergyPlus_Support-unsubscribe@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
<*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to:
http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/