Building Simulation
Dynamic simulation, summer heat protection, BIM and comfort analysis
Dynamic building simulation models the thermal behaviour of a building across the full year, using hourly weather data, thermal mass and realistic usage profiles. It provides the basis for heating and cooling load calculation, summer heat protection and comfort assessment. This topic area explains the methods behind transient calculation and their normative foundations.
9 articles in this category
Dynamic Building Simulation: Fundamentals
What is dynamic building simulation? Differences from steady-state calculation, fields of application and advantages for design
Summer Thermal Protection (DIN 4108-2)
Summer thermal protection by simulation: solar heat gain coefficient vs. dynamic thermal building simulation per DIN 4108-2 – methods, overheating degree hours and limits.
IFC Import for Building Simulation
From BIM model to simulation: how IFC files improve the workflow between CAD and building simulation
Steady-State vs. Dynamic Calculation
Comparison of steady-state energy demand calculation and dynamic simulation: methods, accuracy and fields of application
Building Simulation Software Comparison
EnergyPlus, IDA ICE, TRNSYS and VICUS Buildings: overview and comparison of the leading simulation programs
Indoor Climate & Comfort Analysis
Thermal comfort in buildings: how simulation predicts indoor temperatures, overheating and well-being
Validation Standards for Building Simulation
ASHRAE 140, EN 15255/15265, EN ISO 13791, IEA SHC Task 34, CIBSE TM 33 — overview of validation procedures for thermal building simulation.
NandradSolver: the Engine Behind VICUS Buildings
How does a dynamic building simulation actually solve its equations? From the energy balance via ydot, dependency graph and CVODE to the Newton iteration and linear system — explained interactively.
Building Energy Demand Calculation
How is the energy demand of a building calculated? Heating and cooling demand, steady-state monthly balance (DIN V 18599) vs. dynamic building simulation — methods, drivers and software at a glance.