Automated Building Energy Simulation Parameter Mapping

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Solution Overview

Problem

Manual input of data into building energy simulation software often results in errors, leading to imprecise energy consumption estimates due to the complexity and variability of building information models, which architects and builders struggle to correct.

Innovation Solution

A method and system that automate the selection of building categories and input of parameters using a database within building energy simulation software, allowing for accurate and efficient calculation of energy consumption by categorizing and adjusting building information modeling data for compatibility with energy simulation software formats.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual input of data and parameters into building energy simulation software is used, then flexibility in data entry is maintained, but errors frequently occur and manufacturing precision deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveflexibility in data entryVSAvoidprecision of energy consumption estimation

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-service by automatically extracting building parameters from BIM models and populating simulation software parameters without human intervention. The software autonomously categorizes building components, retrieves relevant parameters, and inputs them into the simulation engine, eliminating manual data entry errors while maintaining operational flexibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical manual data entry process with an automated information extraction and parameter mapping system. Instead of manually typing parameters, the system uses software algorithms to extract data from BIM models, match parameters to simulation requirements, and automatically populate the simulation software, thereby eliminating human error while preserving ease of use.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Manufacturing precision

If automated selection of building category and parameter input is used, then manufacturing precision improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprecision of energy consumption estimationVSAvoidcomplexity of data processing system

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary parameter mapping layer between BIM models and energy simulation software. This intermediary system automatically translates building information model data into simulation-specific parameters, handling the complexity of parameter matching and data transformation internally while presenting a simple interface to users and ensuring high precision in energy consumption estimates.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If manual input of complex building parameters is required, then adaptability to various building types is maintained, but loss of information increases due to user inability to discover or correct errors

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to different building typesVSAvoidaccuracy of input data

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements feedback mechanisms where the automated parameter extraction and validation process continuously checks for data completeness and consistency. The software provides feedback on parameter validity, automatically corrects identifiable errors, and ensures that all necessary building-specific parameters are accurately captured regardless of building type complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS11630927B2Method and system for processing building energy information

Publication Date: 2023.04.18 RUNHORN PRETECH ENG CO LTD

AI summary

The present invention relates to a method and a system for processing building energy information. The method includes the following steps: inputting data of a building information model into building energy simulation software; automatically selecting a building category or manually selecting a building category from a group of building categories provided by the building energy simulation software; in response to the selected building category, inputting a plurality of parameters into a lookup table of the building energy simulation software in accordance with a database of the building energy simulation software; and generating an estimation of a building's energy consumption through a calculation by the building energy simulation software based on the parameters.