[bldg-sim]

[glicksman <glicks@xxxxxxx>]

MIT Design Advisor
We are developing a real time web based energy simulation program that can be used in the early stages of a building design to easily and rapidly assess the impact of major design decisions.

A beta version is freely available as a
real-time simulator on the web at : 
DesignAdvisor@xxxxxxx

The program requires a PC with Internet Explorer or Firefox

The web suite of building energy simulators that
model energy, comfort, and daylighting performance, and give estimates of
the long-term cost of utilities. The simulations restrict flexibility in
order to offer users greater ease-of-use and speed. The tool can be
quickly mastered by non-technical designers, and runs fast enough to
allow them the scope to experiment with many different versions of a
design during a single sitting. The immediate feedback that the site
provides makes it useful in the conceptual phase of design, when
architects cannot afford to invest large amounts of time to rule out any
particular idea. The emphasis of the energy model is on the envelope
system of the building, and includes simulations of high-technology
windows such as double-skin facades. Energy-load estimates are based on a
library of hourly climate data for 30 different cities around the world
and include transient interactions with thermal mass within the
building.. Lighting simulations are carried out using a rapid radiosity
calculation method. Hybrid and natural ventilation strategies are
evaluated for energy saving and comfort conditions.

Address questions and comments to 

Matt Lehar at   scribble@xxxxxxx

and Leon Glicksman at glicks@xxxxxxx

Leon R. Glicksman
Professor of Building Technology and Mechanical Engineering
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Room 5-418
Cambridge, MA 02139
617 253 2233
e-mail: glicks@xxxxxxx
http://architecture.mit.edu/faculty/glicksman.html