Field measurement test to estimate level of accuracy between actual and simulated air-temperature: Case study of mosque buildings

Abstract

One of the main drawbacks of current simulation tools is inaccuracy and each simulation software has a set of different calculation algorithms, which is also prone to limitations and errors. Although the results can be achieved from running the simulation analysis, these results may not reflect the actual performance of a building in in real world scenarios. Additionally, when using simulation software for decision-making tools or to build a numerical model, validation tests are required to ensure the quality of the obtained results. This paper conducted a field measurement test to record the interior air temperature for specific period of time and compare it with EnergyPlus™ simulation results at the same time. A digital recorder of Temperature Humidity Tester Thermometer Clock Hygrometer KT-908 was applied and the results showed that the difference between the measured and simulated air temperatures did not exceed 0.55°C. As there was no significant difference between the measured and simulated air-temperatures, which gives credibility and attests to the quality of the EnergyPlus™ simulation results.