Can you guarantee that the completed building will match the performance predicted by the analysis in its day-to-day operations?
No, the analysis tools only provide predictions based on the inputs. The real life construction and operations of the building will most likely differ from the predicted performance since there are so many variables to consider. Ideally, the prediction will be close to the actual results, but it is not guaranteed to be the same
When choosing settings for each of the building performance factors, should you always choose the setting that gives the absolute lowest predicted energy use?
No, settings should not always be chosen to give the lowest predicted energy use. The factors should reflect what is possible in actual construction and operations. For example, a two foot thick wall would provide a high insulation (and thus lower energy use) but building all walls as two foot thick is not practical. Or, a schedule of just one a week for 6 hours would provide a lower energy use, but if its an office building, a one day work schedule would not make sense.
How can you use Insight feedback to make design choices regarding materials, lighting, PV, etc.?
Insight allows you to see how design choices affect the building energy use. The factors in Insight can show areas where small changes (such as efficient lighting) can lead to large energy reductions. It can also show where certain changes, which may be costly, don't reduce the energy use by a large margin. It also allows you to see how a range of changes/improvements affect the energy use and help you decide which options make most sense for the particular design.
4D simulations are often used to show the construction sequence for an entire project, but shorter simulations that focus on a specific period of time are also useful.
- Can you provide examples of how a simulation that focuses on a 1 or 2 week period could be useful for planning?
What level of detail should be included in a 4D simulation?
- Should you include all of the elements in the building model?
How can the feedback shown in a 4D simulation help you to optimize the project schedule?
- What are the main benefits of linking model elements to the project schedule?
How can model-based quantity takeoff improve the design process?
How can designers improve their designs using the information provided by preliminary estimates of the cost of building their design ideas?