Enhancing early-phase project interoperability between BIM and energy simulation models through parametric design tools

Abstract

In light of climate change, significant updates are being applied to the energy efficiency of both new and existing buildings. The ‘Energy Efficiency First’ principle, advocated by the European Union, stress the necessity of integrating energy-efficient solutions at the heart of the design and implementation processes. This emphasizes integrating energy-efficient strategies from the start, recognizing that early design decisions significantly impact CO2 emissions reduction over a building's lifecycle. However, the limited interoperability between Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Building Energy Model (BEM) often postpones energy consumption calculations to later project stages, hindering the inclusion of early passive design strategies that could markedly lower energy usage. To facilitate early-stage energy simulations, a methodology promoting seamless BIM-BEM information exchange via middleware tools is essential. Integrating Rhinoceros 3D/Grasshopper 3D with Autodesk Revit through Rhino Inside and coupling OpenStudio/EnergyPlus with Grasshopper 3D via LadyBug Tools, allows Grasshopper 3D to act as a bridge between BIM and BEM. This process begins with importing and verifying the BIM model's earlystage data—the geometry of spaces, windows, and other elements—into Grasshopper 3D. Then, using Ladybug Tools, environmental parameters are established, defining the properties of building components. Honeybee facilitates direct connections to OpenStudio and EnergyPlus for advanced energy calculations, aiding in optimizing HVAC systems and overall energy performance. This approach establishes a robust workflow between BIM and BEM, enhancing software interoperability, supporting early design evaluations, and allowing for the validation of passive design strategies. It aligns with the 'energy efficiency first' principle, supporting design decisions that prioritize energy efficiency from the outset, enabling precise simulations of solar radiation, energy consumption, and emissions, and fostering a foundation in passive design measures.