Maximizing Energy Efficiency and Daylight Performance in Office Buildings in BIM through RBFOpt Model-Based Optimization: The GENIUS Project

Abstract

Architects face the challenge of exploring various design solutions in the early design stage, often with conflicting optimization goals. To tackle this complexity, they need to rely on tools and methodologies during the conceptual phase to assess and optimize designs, considering multiple aspects of building performance. Parametric Design, Generative Design, and automation in Building Information Modelling (BIM) offer architects new opportunities to work on complex buildings. These advancements empower designers to enhance their designs, increase project efficiency, improve performance, and reduce project time and costs. Multi-Objective Optimization algorithms are employed to address conflicting objectives in the design process. The GENIUS project introduces an algorithm-aided design workflow that optimizes the building shape and Window-to-Wall Ratio of an office building, considering energy and daylight performance. The integration of BIM software, visual programming tools, and Artificial Intelligence techniques (Genetic Algorithms and RBFOpt model-based optimization) allows architects to identify optimal solutions aligning with design objectives. The workflow was validated through a case study of a large office building, focusing on maximizing daylight performance using the Spatial Daylight Autonomy metric and minimizing energy consumption using the Energy Use Intensity metric. The GENIUS project equips architects with a methodology and toolset to improve their designs and identify optimal solutions for complex design challenges.