Building Performance Predictions: How Simulations Can Improve Design Decisions

This article discusses relationships between simulations, modeling and design decisions. The article focuses on the methods that can be used to quantify building performance and predict various performance parameters. It presents relationships between BIM and analysis software applications, outlining best practices for the integrated analysis-design process. Two case studies are used to illustrate this process. The first study reviews curtain wall energy performance for a healthcare facility located in a mixed humid climate and daylighting analysis. The second case study discusses comprehensive analysis for an academic research building focusing on site and orientation studies, solar exposure, investigation of performance of shading devices and daylighting analysis.

keywords: building envelope, energy efficiency, daylight, BIM, solar exposure