Thermal simulation software outputs: a framework to produce meaningful information for design decision-making

This paper describes a process used to develop and test a framework to produce thermal simulation post-processed information meaningful to building design decision-making. The framework adopts a user-centred approach in which the building designer is considered the ultimate simulation tool user eith...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of building performance simulation 2015-03, Vol.8 (2), p.57-78
Main Authors: Bleil de Souza, Clarice, Tucker, Simon
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Buildings
Computer programs
Construction
Data visualization
Decision making
Design
Design engineering
Design of buildings
framework for simulation in design
simulation and building design
simulation outputs for building design
simulation outputs for decision-making
Thermal simulation
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Summary:This paper describes a process used to develop and test a framework to produce thermal simulation post-processed information meaningful to building design decision-making. The framework adopts a user-centred approach in which the building designer is considered the ultimate simulation tool user either directly or indirectly when supported by consultants. The framework supports the building designer's 'modus operandi' and is developed through a set of interdisciplinary research methods. Participatory Action Research, Thematic Analysis and Grounded Theory are used, together with principles from Information Visualization, dynamic thermal modelling and Building Design, following a design approach to problem-solving taken from the discipline of Interaction Design. The various elements of the framework and their connections are derived from analysis of sequences of design actions made by novice designers undertaking complex design activities. Tests of the framework are undertaken through an online questionnaire and five semi-structured interviews with UK architectural design practices.
ISSN:1940-1493
1940-1507
DOI:10.1080/19401493.2013.872191