Coupling of dynamic building simulation with stochastic modelling of occupant behaviour in offices – a review-based integrated methodology

Abstract

A comprehensive modular behavioural model for office buildings and its coupling to building simulation software is introduced, developed to be used in energy uncertainty analysis in a straightforward manner. The model includes the inherent variability in behaviour amongst individuals by defining representative active and passive users. The ratio of the latter serves as an input for the uncertainty analysis. The behavioural model consists of submodels for occupancy, use of shading system, window operation, control of artificial lighting, heat gains by appliances and the control of heating and cooling set points. All these submodels are selected from a literature review. The review revealed a lack of validation and intercomparison of the models as the principal weakness of the research field. The methodology is applied in a Monte Carlo analysis of the uncertainty on the simulated energy demands of an office building at the building level, yielding moderate uncertainties.