Advanced design tools for energy conscious building design: Development and dissemination

Abstract

This paper is concerned with building energy simulation and the prospects for the delivery of a new generation of simulation based, valid and easy to use design tools to the building construction industry. The issues relating to design tools development and use are discussed and the present state-of-the-art is described. Some medium to long term developments are then identified, including an intelligent “front end” and the notion of an advanced machine enviroment for the construction and maintenance of future models concerned with building energy and environement. The mechanisms for technology transfer are identified and experiences recounted of the first two years operation of an innovatory energy design advisory service. The paper finishes with a look to the future of the information technologies in building design.