Thermal Modelling / Dynamic Simulation

A thermal model is generally created from the proposed plan layouts / sections for a building and incorporates details of the construction materials, window details and thermal insulation. Historical weather data for the building location are included in the model data, along with anticipated occupancy and usage levels.

Details of the proposed heating, cooling, ventilation and lighting strategies are then added to the building data, before a simulation of the building model is run. Results available from a simulation include details on calculated internal space temperatures, humidity levels, natural ventilation / infiltration air flow rates, internal CO₂ levels, day-lighting factors and details of the buildings calculated carbon emissions.

These carbon emission figures are used to check the building model for compliance with the Building Regulations (Section 6 or Part L). Current target emission levels for compliance with the Regulations will require some form of low carbon / renewable energy technology to be incorporated within most new buildings.