IBPSA2011

Multi-objective optimization algorithms are used in the building design process to find optimal solutions for design problems. Typically, these algorithms provide the decision maker with a Pareto front containing trade-off solutions. Since these solutions are equally good, the decision maker needs a method to select the most appropriate solution. In this paper, we propose a selection method that ranks the Pareto solutions according to their performance robustness. This allows the decision maker to select the most robust design solution.

Research experts participating in the International Energy Agency (IEA) Task 40 project on Net Zero Energy Buildings (Net ZEB) were asked to classify their countries climate. Six of the participating countries researchers categorised the residential and non-residential buildings, placed in the same location, into different climate zones. This indicated that a climate zoning for buildings that is based purely on the external climate conditions is not sufficient.

This paper presents a case study of the role that Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) played in the design of modifications to the existing Hamer Hall auditorium Heating Ventilation and Air-Conditioning (HVAC) systems. The use of CFD allowed the designer to benchmark the potential performance of proposed modifications against the existing installation. Further, it allowed them to anticipate areas where improvements may not be satisfactory, allowing them to explore available options and communicate this information to the end user.

The Test Reference Year (TRY) weather file was developed in 1993; in 2009 the Typical Meteorological Year (TMY) became the new standard weather file to use in energy based simulations. The TRY weather file has been used in the development of New Zealand’s Building Codes and Standards that are still current today. This paper describes the differences between the two weather files and how they influence the results of the energy consumption and thermal performance calculated through simulation. This comparison has been made with reference to both residential and commercial buildings. 

Two types of Ground Heat Exchanger (GHX) zonal models are suggested for a new analysis method that can reduce analysis time and reflecting heat transfer mechanisms occurring on the GHX section; using a circular pattern (Circular) and replacing the circle with a square shape (Square). The GHX zonal model is suggested to analyze a 2-dimensional unsteady-state thermal performance involving heat interference between pipes in a borehole.

This research investigates glare control strategies in reference to operational energy consumption and productivity for sustainable upgrades of existing buildings in two very different climate zones. This way the climate sensitivity of glare prevention solutions including the impact on operational energy consumption can be shown. Operating control strategies for various internal blind configurations for a tight renovation budget are tested for three different desk positions and compared with the impact of the Australian “blinds-down approach”.

Trombe wall and high performance glazing are the façade system improvements used in this research. This paper reports about an ongoing investigation on a new façade system: "Façade Modules for Eco-Efficient Refurbishment of Buildings", focused on thermal performance of Trombe wall and glazing. Computational simulations were performed with DesignBuilder software for different arrangements of modules, occupancy profile and internal gains according to Portuguese reality.

We present a new approach to the optimisation of Double-Skin Facades (DSFs). Parameters defined possible geometries, shading devices, openings and ventilation paths, as well as control schedules for their operation. A genetic algorithm was used to discover the best configuration and control strategies for a given scenario from scratch, rather than using a partic-ular configuration type. The algorithm performed a thermal and air-flow simulation of each proposed solution using EnergyPlus. The optimisation process has been illustrated with a case study.

Integrated cavity-wall systems are typically designed to shade the exterior of buildings.  They can also eradicate daytime heat absorption by thermal convection. The combined heat loss through the natural nighttime sky radiation, the cavity wall shading effect, and the thermal convective loop results in a significantly improved building envelope performance. This paper outlines the design, construction, and monitoring of a south-facing cavity wall system integrated into a single-family residence in Southern Arizona.

The Israeli standard 5282 for energy rating of buildings includes, besides a Prescriptive path, a Performance Approach that requires using an hourly energy simulation model to demonstrate compliance.  In this work, we present the development of a Graphical User Interface (GUI), in which most of the expert knowledge needed to run such complex simulation model is embedded in it. The output of the evaluation is a certificate specifying the energy rating of each unit in the building, as well as the energy rating of the whole building.