Modern building simulation: precision instead of rough estimates

Buildings are constantly exposed to changing influences - be it seasonal temperature fluctuations, sudden changes in the weather or daily use by people. Nevertheless, many calculations of energy requirements and comfort are still based on simplified manual calculation methods that cannot realistically reflect these dynamics. Their results are often only rough averages and do not take important influencing factors into account. In the past, there have already been attempts to calculate energy demand and comfort dynamically. However, as these methods were developed for limited computing capacities, they were greatly simplified.

Unfortunately, many static methods are still used today that do not adequately capture the complex dynamics of buildings.

In the Transport and automotive industry detailed, physically precise simulations have long been standard. The reason is obvious - it is safer and more economical to simulate a model instead of encountering problems during operation.


Why should the construction industry do without it?

Outdated methods behind modern surfaces

Today, these outdated calculation methods are often hidden behind modern user interfaces. This makes it increasingly difficult to distinguish them from genuine, modern simulation technology. However, seemingly advanced planning can be deceptive: This seemingly advanced planning only provides a limited insight into possible solutions in a project. In the worst case, the standard solutions do not work or the results are so unreliable that the building envelope and systems are greatly oversized.

The OptiPower study by the Swiss Federal Office of Energy confirms that heating and cooling generators are often oversized.

Two OST institutes have conducted detailed analyses of a large number of heating systems to establish the facts and highlight the consequences for costs and efficiency. In over 600 new buildings in the apartment block sector, the oversizing of heat pump systems amounts to a median of 40 %, in some cases even up to 90 %. The situation is even more dramatic in office buildings, where the heating and cooling systems are oversized by a factor of 2 to 4.

The costs of oversizing far exceed the expenses for a simulation.

The advantages of modern, dynamic building simulation

We at the Swiss Building Simulation Association rely on modern, dynamic building simulation. This uses validated, physically precise models that depict reality in detail and comprehensively capture the building dynamics. Modern simulation programmes go far beyond the pure thermodynamic analysis of the building envelope, systems and control. They offer a wide range of analysis and optimisation options. A simulation model thus becomes a virtual test bench on which various scenarios can be tested before faults occur in the real building.

Discover our success stories that illustrate the clear advantage of simulations based on real projects - SUCCES STORIES

Summarising the advantages of dynamic building simulation

Simulations are a tool for the overall optimisation of buildings, sites or infrastructure structures. The building is considered holistically across all trades. All system components interact with each other and the entire life cycle is taken into account. This allows questions to be answered early on in the planning phase and uncertainties to be eliminated. This creates a wide range of added value for the environment, the client, the construction project, the investor and the user of the building.

  • Reduction of energy consumption, grey energy and greenhouse gas emissions
  • Reduction of operating costs
  • Optimisation of building technology
  • Avoidance of discomfort
  • Planners work in a coordinated manner on an overarching trade concept
  • Simulation serves as a virtual test bench
  • Opportunities and potential are recognised in good time, planning risks are reduced
  • Client receives a better basis for planning and implementation decisions
  • Findings from simulations become relevant for authorisation
  • Buildings function as planned during operation
  • Increase comprehensibility: Visualisation of results
  • Consideration and optimisation of buildings depending on different parameters simultaneously (e.g. daylight, thermal comfort, building services systems)


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