Architectural Computer Simulation Methodology: Process and Procedure of Thermal Assessment using IES

Abstract

Computer Simulation is the most advanced method for investigating whole building energy
performance within a short period. It is used to simulate building models to investigate its performance
with regards to thermal, daylighting, heating, ventilating and air-conditioning (HVAC), energy efficiency,
life cycle assessment, egress, among others. However, this paper aims at revealing the processes and
procedures of using computer simulation in architectural research to enhance proficiency in handling
simulation methodology through the first-hand information. Therefore, the paper represented the
processes and procedures involves in the simulation methodology with a flow chart comprises of: selection
of the appropriate simulation software, modelling of the building design and configuration in ModelIT
module after proper location of the region/country/city from the Aplocate section of the program.
Furthermore, the right creation of construction and thermal template, assigning construction and thermal
templates to the model(s), proper orientation of the models, Suncast exercises for solar shading
calculations, then thermal simulation via ApacheSim. Finally, extracting results from IES-VE using ‘VistaPro’
section of the program. The paper in addition indicated aspect of architecture where this methodology is
usually applicable. Lastly, the importance and limitations of this methodology were stressed in this paper.
The paper recommends further study on the processes and procedures of daylighting and other modules
of IESVE that have not been discuss here