Can you guarantee that the completed building will match the performance predicted by the analysis in its day-to-day operations?
- Why or why not?
In real life, there is much more variability which will not be accounted for in the model. In my model, I made huge oversimplifications to the building shape, layout, materials, etc. which affected the estimations of my model. It is never a guarantee, but with a more accurate model you can closer approximate real life performance.
When choosing settings for each of the building performance factors, should you always choose the setting that gives the absolute lowest predicted energy use?
There are always trade offs when selecting the lowest predicted energy use. For example, selecting the most energy efficient PV means spending extra on up front costs since these panels are more expensive.
How can you use Insight feedback to make design choices regarding materials, lighting, PV, etc.?
Insight feedback is useful in choosing which design factors you want to optimize to arrive at your target energy goals. It is likely not possible/ideal to optimize every single factor for a variety of reasons (compromising design aesthetics, too expensive, etc.) so Insight feedback helps you determine which design factors you are willing to optimize (i.e. it is most worth it to you to optimize) and which ones can be left alone.
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?