Welcome to DesignBuilder’s February Newsletter! In this edition we bring you:
- Webinar: Next Generation Parametric Tools for Evidence-Based Design Decisions
- Featured Case Study: First Steps to LEED Success in Mauritius
- Top Tip: Create and Reuse Custom HVAC Templates
- Learning Resources
Webinar: Next Generation Parametric Tools for Evidence-Based Design Decisions
Best practice energy modelling methodologies such as ASHRAE Standard 209 and CIBSE TM54 recommend undertaking design optimisation or scenario assessment to support data-driven design decisions. However, traditional manual iteration methods for exploring these scenarios can be time-consuming and inefficient. DesignBuilder provides a set of next-generation Parametric tools that streamline design exploration, enabling you to quickly and efficiently evaluate different options as part of an evidence-based approach to design decision-making.
This webinar will review DesignBuilder’s Parametric, Optimisation, and Sensitivity analysis capabilities for selecting appropriate design options. We will also discuss the use of these tools to optimise controls, test for future climate, and support risk assessments in performance contracting projects.
You can register here to attend the live webinar on Wednesday, March 12th, or to receive a recording after the event.
Register for the webinarFeatured Case Study: First Steps to LEED Success in Mauritius
Ecolution Consulting used DesignBuilder to complete their first in-house LEED modelling project for Bagatelle Exclusives, a Shell and Core office building in Mauritius. High-performance glazing, efficient lighting, and a roof-mounted PV array contributed to a 33% energy improvement, earning 14 points for the ‘Optimize Energy Performance’ credit and a LEED Certified rating.
Our latest case study describes how Ecolution used DesignBuilder’s LEED/ASHRAE 90.1 tools to enable a swift and successful completion of this project. It provides a valuable example of the modelling workflow for a Shell and Core LEED project.
Top Tip: Create and Reuse Custom HVAC Templates
DesignBuilder’s preconfigured HVAC templates provide a great starting point for Detailed HVAC system modelling. They allow layouts and settings to be loaded and linked to zones with just a few clicks, saving significant modelling time. But did you know you can also create your own custom system templates – including AHUs, zone equipment, plant components and their connections and settings – for reuse in future projects?
To save your tried and tested project HVAC system as a template, start by navigating to the HVAC System Level on the Navigation Panel. Then click ‘Save HVAC Template’ on the toolbar, enter a descriptive name and press OK to save it. Your template will then be accessible from the ‘User’ folder for future projects.
To load your custom HVAC system in a new project, navigate to the HVAC System level and click the ‘Load HVAC Template’ toolbar icon to open the ‘Load HVAC Template’ wizard. Under ‘Detailed HVAC Template’, click the browse button to locate your template in the User folder. Select the zones to be included in the first group, then click the ‘Finish’ button.
You can load additional HVAC templates and make manual adjustments to the layout and settings as needed to finalise your system. For more information on saving and loading templates, please refer to our Help article.
