Approach to calibrated simulation tool for improved building performance

Abstract

Simulation tools represent continuous, stochastic processes in buildings by discrete timestep, deterministic model estimations. All models make assumptions when representing real buildings. Detailed models more closely represent the operation of the real building and allow Energy Conservation Measures (ECM) to be investigated at finer resolution, using fewer assumptions. This paper presents a systematic, evidence-based approach to calibrated simulation. This approach yields a calibrated model that is based solely on referenced sources of information about the building. The proposed methodology builds on some of the best techniques from the reviewed literature and combines these with an evidence-based approach that uses version control software to track the calibration process.Although the process produces a single, deterministic model for an inherently stochastic process (building operation), such an approach can produce meaningful conclusions where sub-utilities hourly measured data and significant resources for further investigation and measurement are available.