OVERVIEW
Thanks in part to green building programs like LEED, whole-building energy simulation has become more common. However, it’s not always doing its job.
When modeling is only used late in design, the modeling might have little value beyond keeping score. When using an iterative process of modeling early in design, results of modeling become feedback not only for the current project but also for future projects and design approaches.
Performance modeling is about more than energy. Other kinds of modeling commonly used for high-performing buildings include:
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daylight simulation
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hygrothermal modeling
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thermal comfort modeling
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climate modeling
There is no substitute, though, for understanding how your building works. These resources can help you learn how to integrate modeling strategies into your other processes.
IN-DEPTH
Filter results:
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Go with the Flows: The Promise and Peril of Hygrothermal Modeling
April 2, 2014Feature Article
Tools modeling heat and moisture flows in building envelopes, such as WUFI, offer vital information for architects and engineers-but their misuse can do harm.
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Designing for the Next Century's Weather
September 30, 2013Feature Article
How do you create a climate-responsive building in a changing climate? Brand new modeling techniques are helping us figure it out.
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What’s the Secret to High Performance?
May 2, 2017News Analysis
A new report identifies common habits of the firms that produce the best-designed and most sustainable projects.
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Energy Modeling: Early and Often
March 1, 2013Feature Article
For the biggest energy and cost savings, model early in design and model often, say the experts.
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Doing Daylighting Right
March 26, 2012Feature Article
Harvesting daylight is a popular way to save energy and promote productivity. But getting it wrong is all too easy-and can have the opposite effects.
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2030 Culture: Six Selfish Reasons to Commit
April 4, 2016Feature Short
2030 Commitment signatories are making progress on climate goals. Along the way, they’re also finding new ways to save time and money.
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Dream Materials: What Do You Really Want to Build With?
September 25, 2015Webcast
Innovations in product manufacturing are creating new options for designers at an ever-increasing pace. But are the new products and materials what we really want? Can we trust their claims?
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Full-Blown Energy Modeling
August 24, 2015Webcast
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Four Reasons Building Performance Is Worse Than Predicted
August 20, 2015News Brief
It’s common for energy use to far exceed what models predict. Should outcome-based measures be the new standard?
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Shoebox Energy Modeling: How to Do Quick, Early Simulations
February 12, 2015Webcast
