Considerations for advanced building thermal simulation programs

In order to assess the applicability of a more modular approach to the development of building thermal analysis programs, this paper begins with a review of some of the basic numerical methods used in simulation. These are discussed with some observations from other fields of study besides building simulation. Two major examples of advanced simulation methods are presented: the use of sparse matrix methods for heat transfer simulation and a modular calculation of building airflows. Their implications on the development of the next generation of building thermal analysis programs are discussed.