Exploration of using building performance simulation tools for conceptual building design

This paper reports on an exploration of the use of building performance simulation tools in current building design practice. Firstly the paper identifies the features and capabilities of six software tools (Orca, MIT Design Advisor, h.e.n.k., Energy-10, BDA and e-QUEST) obtained from a software review. Secondly, the current use of simulation tools is illustrated by reporting findings of interviews with building and system designers focusing on limits and opportunities for using building simulation tools for conceptual building design now and in the future.