Approach to Calibrated Simulation Tool for Improved Building Performance

Abstract

Simulation tools represent continuous, stochastic processes in buildings by discrete time-step, deterministic model estimations. All models make assumptions when representing real buildings. Detailed models more closely represent the operation of the real building and allow Energy Conservation Measures (ECM) to be investigated at finer resolution, using fewer assumptions. This paper presents a systematic, evidence-based approach to calibrated simulation. This approach yields a calibrated model that is based solely on referenced sources of information about the building. The proposed methodology builds on some of the best techniques from the reviewed literature and combines these with an evidence-based approach that uses version control software to track the calibration process.Although the process produces a single, deterministic model for an inherently stochastic process (building operation), such an approach can produce meaningful conclusions where sub-utilities hourly measured data and significant resources for further investigation and measurement are available.

Post-occupancy evaluation of research and academic laboratory facilities

“…Thus, over the years, hundreds of POE studies have been carried out on a variety of facilities. In POE studies, tools are developed based on the conditions of the case studies, and the evaluation criteria required by code, or the respective government agency in the building’s location (Shika et al , 2014). Researchers group the applicable performance elements into different categories, however careful study shows that they can be grouped under the three main categories suggested by Preiser et al (1988).…”