Building Information Modelling and Energy Simulati

applied
sciences
Article
Building Information Modelling and Energy Simulation for
Architecture Design
Marina Bonomolo 1, *, Simone Di Lisi 2 and Giuliana Leone 1
1 Department of Engineering, University of Palermo, 90128 Palermo, Italy; giuliana.leone@unipa.it

2 Via Del Mazziere, 73, 90018 Termini Imerese, Italy; simone_di_lisi_95@libero.it
* Correspondence: marina.bonomolo@unipa.it
Abstract: Over the years, building information modelling (BIM) has undergone a significant increase,
both in terms of functions and use. This tool can almost completely manage the entire process
of design, construction, and management of a building internally. However, it is not able to fully
integrate the functions and especially the information needed to conduct a complex energy analysis.
Indeed, even if the energy analysis has been integrated into the BIM environment, it still fails to make
the most of all the potential offered by building information modelling. The main goals of this study
are the analysis of the interaction between BIM and energy simulation, through a review of the main
existing commercial tools (available and user-friendly), and the identification and the application of a
methodology in a BIM environment by using Graphisoft’s BIM software Archicad and the plug-in for
dynamic energy simulation EcoDesigner STAR. The application on a case study gave the possibility
to explore the advantages and the limits of these commercial tools and, consequently, to provide some
possible improvements. The results of the analysis, satisfactory from a quantitative and qualitative
point of view, validated the methodology proposed in this study and highlighted some limitations of
the tools used, in particular for the aspects concerning the personalization of heating systems.
Citation: Bonomolo, M.; Di Lisi, S.;
Leone, G. Building Information Keywords: BIM; BEM; simulation modelling; dynamic simulation
Modelling and Energy Simulation for
Architecture Design. Appl. Sci. 2021,
11, 2252. https://doi.org/10.3390/
app11052252 1. Introduction
The large-scale diffusion of building information modelling (BIM) tools for architecture
Academic Editors: Jürgen Reichardt
has led to an enormous evolution of these digital means [1]. Today, it includes multiple
and Igal Shohet
functions capable of carrying out numerous analyses (e.g., structural, energy, metric-
estimative, etc.) on a single virtual model of the building. In particular, some aspects, e.g.,
Received: 27 January 2021
Accepted: 1 March 2021
energy ones can be implemented by using a monitoring system connected to the BIM. Jen-tu
Published: 4 March 2021
and Vernatha [2] proposed an application of Building Information Modelling in establishing
the ‘BIM based Energy Management Support System’ (BIM-EMSS) to assist individual
Publisher’s Note: MDPI stays neutral
departments within universities in their energy management tasks. They installed sensors
with regard to jurisdictional claims in
for occupants and other equipment such as electricity sub-meters that constantly logging
published maps and institutional affil- consumption, and developing BIM models of all rooms within individual departments’
iations. facilities, data warehouse, building energy management system that provides energy
managers with various energy management functions, and energy simulation tools (such as
eQuest). In addition, Alahmad et al. [3] integrated BIM with a Real Time Power Monitoring
(RTPM) System, and Jeong-Han Woo et al. [4] presented a prototype of BIM-based Baseline
Copyright: © 2021 by the authors.
Building Model (B3M) for ageing commercial buildings. When the aim is not the real-
Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.
time monitoring and there is not an existing building or the possibility to install sensors
This article is an open access article
and other devices, it is necessary to use energy simulation tools and connect them with
distributed under the terms and the BIM. Although BIM software is technologically advanced and able to best meet the
conditions of the Creative Commons needs of professionals in various applications, the energy simulation function needs many
Attribution (CC BY) license (https:// improvements. Some researches started to investigate the topic of the “green dimension” [5].
creativecommons.org/licenses/by/ Indeed, to optimize the design in terms of energy efficiency, it could be useful that the
4.0/). energy simulation phase be carried out in meantime with the development of the project [6]
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, 2252. https://doi.org/10.3390/app11052252 https://www.mdpi.com/journal/applsci

Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, 2252 2 of 31
and to make choices based on intermediate calculations, and therefore constantly modify
the project until the objectives are achieved [7]. To do this, it is often necessary to build
another digital model, called BEM (Building Energy Model), or implement the BIM model
with all the information needed for energy simulation (occupation of the rooms, calculation
of thermal bridges, analysis based on hourly climate data, etc.) [8]. The main issue is the
lack of bidirectional interaction between the two models. Furthermore, one of the main
issues is data transmission. For this reason, BIM for energy simulation is often used only
for early design step [9]. The aim should be to work with a unique model [10]. In last
decade, many researchers presented studies on BIM’s application in energy analysis and
simulation [11] and proposed solutions for the interoperability between BIM and energy
simulation tools [12]. Some of them developed tools to integrate BIMs. Bratch et al. [13]
evaluated the possibility of integrating a thermal load prediction metamodel to building
information models to facilitate the data exchange process. To do this, they developed
a tool to validate the viability of this integration using gbXML, and it was submitted to
validation tests. Ramaji et al. developed an extension for OpenStudio able to transform
building information models represented in Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) files into
building energy analysis models in the OpenStudio data format. Kamel et al. [14] developed
and presented a new tool called ABEMAT (Automated Building Energy Modelling and
Assessment Tool), able to make the building energy simulation using BIM automatic and
to give fine-grained outputs. It receives a gbXML file and provides users with the amount
of heat transfer through each building envelope element.
Kim et al. [15] developed and validated a library for BIM for the building energy
simulation (ModelicaBIM library) using an Object-Oriented Physical Modeling (OOPM) in
the scope of the building envelope.
A design-decision-supporting tool for the conceptual phases of design and throughout
the design process based on a BIM template has been designed by El Sayary and Omar [16].
In particular, the aim was to develop a simple tool to calculate how many photovoltaic
solar panels can be installed to reach a zero-energy building by substituting all electric
devices. Xu et al. [17] investigated the application of BIM for addressing the building
energy performance gap. The authors provided a clear set of guidelines for how BIM could
be used, by each function, to overcome the BEPG to reduce global emissions driven from
the building and construction sector. These cited studies provided good outcomes and
results. Nevertheless, a goal of this study is to test a commercial existing tool, easy to be
found and to be used. Other authors applied existing commercial tools.
Additionally, Utkucun and Sözer [18] proposed a method to determine the interoper-
ability of the utilized programs for evaluating a building’s energy performance and indoor
comfort through the BIM approach. To do this, they built three main analysis models:
An architecture of the building (with the 3D building model), indoor comfort conditions
(with the computational fluid dynamics for natural ventilation simulation), and energy
performance (with a building energy model specified by the building architecture and
its systems). Then, they integrated them through a BIM platform. In order to investigate
the potential and limitations of applying BIM to energy management and simulation
in the operation lifecycle phase of a service building, Rodrigues et al. [19] developed a
service building BIM model in Autodesk Revit and used Energy Analysis for Autodesk
Revit that automatically generated the Building Energy Model (BEM) from the BIM model
and performed a cloud-based simulation in Autodesk Green Building Studio (GBS). They
found input limitations of GBS, mainly in HVAC systems customization, compromise the
representation and energy performance evaluation of the building under actual operating
conditions. For this reason, they affirmed that GBS is more adequate for early buildings’
lifecycle stages where energy simulation results may support decisions that aim to improve
the buildings’ energy performance during the operation phase.
Tushar et al. [20] used the software Autodesk Revit together with the energy rating
tool (FirstRate5), and BIM-enabled life cycle assessment (LCA-Tally) to quantify, com-
pare, and improve the building design options to reduce carbon footprint and energy
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, 2252 3 of 31
consumptions in residential dwellings. Alam and Ham [21] compared FirstRate5 with
Archicad EcoDesigner developing three building types. They found significant differ-
ences between simulations, being, measured areas, thermal loads, and potentially serious
shortcomings within FirstRate5, that were discussed along with the future potential of
a fully BIM-integrated model for energy rating certification in Victoria. In Farzad Jalaei
and Ahmad Jrade’s study [22], an integrated method that links BIM, energy analysis, and
cost estimating tools with a green building certification system was presented. The aim
was to calculate the potential gain or loss of energy for the building and to evaluate its
sustainability based on the US and/or Canadian Green Building Council.
Right now, the data transmission between BIM and BEM is possible through two
types of file format: IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) and gbXML (Green Building
Extensible Markup Language). Both have important advantages. The IFC format is the
standard format for information exchange in BIM modelling and is the only format to have
a certification. It is possible to load most of the information concerning a building except for
the energy analysis data, such as occupancy profiles, data relating to external and internal
temperatures, systems, etc. The gbXML is a format based on IFC, but containing all the
information of an energetic nature. It was developed to operate in this field, and it is the
most popular among energy analysis software. Indeed, some software have been imported
only in this format to the detriment of the IFC (IES-VE [23], EnergyPlus [24], eQUEST [25]).
However, in a review paper, Gao et al. [26] investigated the data transfer between BIM to
building energy modelling and they found that the development of BIM-based building
energy modelling is still at the initial stage and few methods can be guaranteed to generate
reliable building energy models from building information models without errors.
In this light, it has to be remembered that the choice of the tool is very important
because, based on the software used, working times can increase or be reduced. On the
other hand, it is possible that once the BIM model of a building is completed, it is exported
to software for energy analysis, and this does not interpret the geometries well or even fails
to import a lot of information previously entered. It makes the work useless. In this case,
the technician has to manually enter each missing item or in the worst case, he/she has to
build a model specifically for the energy analysis. This procedure can be more or less long
depending on the building under consideration. It certainly differs from the BIM aim that
provides a faster and interoperable workflow by means of a single model.
The most common choice in the architectural-energy field is to proceed with the
architectural design and postpone the energy analysis at the end. It provides a separate
and specific calculation, and this process often leads to a meaningless analysis as this
is ascertained.
The process to be adopted must be the opposite: Support the design with energy
analysis from the early stages (which by its nature will be a summary, as you will not yet
have all the parameters to be able to make a more complex analysis) and direct the project
towards a more eco-sustainable way. In this light, obviously, a real transition, from BIM to
BEM is required. It has to be managed by single software that is based on the digital model
that is being built, and which automatically updates the BEM on this basis, allowing for a
reduction in work-time and a more energy-saving design.
In this study, a methodology based on the full interaction between Graphisoft’s BIM
software Archicad and the plug-in for dynamic energy simulation EcoDesigner STAR was
tested. They have been selected after a study of the rules on energy analysis, an examination
of the operational potential of different software on the market, and a research conducted
by a wide scientific community interested in various capacities in issues related to the
interaction between architecture and energy analysis. In particular, the choice has been
based on some main criteria such as versatility, i.e., the presence of integrated functions
that allow BIM and BEM modelling, compliance with standards (the software or plug-in
for energy analysis must meet the requirements set by the most advanced energy diagnosis
standards, such as UNI EN ISO 52016-1 for the calculation in dynamic hourly regime,
ASHRAE 140-2017 and UNI/TS 11300 on the monthly average stationary calculation and
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, x FOR PEER REVIEW 4 of 32
that allow BIM and BEM modelling, compliance with standards (the software or plug-in
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, 2252 for energy analysis must meet the requirements set by the most advanced energy diagno- 4 of 31
sis standards, such as UNI EN ISO 52016-1 for the calculation in dynamic hourly regime,
ASHRAE 140-2017 and UNI/TS 11300 on the monthly average stationary calculation and
certification required by buildingSMART for IFC certification; and versatility thanks to
certification required by buildingSMART for IFC certification; and versatility thanks to the
the presence of integrated functions that allow BIM modelling and BEM modelling.
presence The main goals arefunctions
of integrated thatofallow
the analysis BIM modelling
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energy simulation
The main goals are the analysis of the interaction between BIM
and the identification of a methodology that allows overcoming the above-mentioned and energy simulation
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With this purpose, of Graphisoft’s
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energy simulation, EcoDesigner STAR, were used. They have been selected after a carefulfor dynamic energy
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Thanks related to the interaction
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2.2.Methodology
Methodology of
of the
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This study starts
Thisstudy starts from the ideaidea that
thatBEM
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asasobserved
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paperaims
aims toto study aa method
methodto tocarry
carryout outenergy
energyanalysis
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using these
these tools.
tools. To To
do this, it was hypothesized to test a combination of two tools (selected
do this, it was hypothesized to test a combination of two tools (selected after an investigationafter an investiga-
oftion
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background research).
research). TheyThey
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and data. and data.latter
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preted to the
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by including advantages advantages and disadvantages
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shows shows
that it is that it is to
possible
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perform to perform energy
analysis analysis
through thethrough the use
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needsbut it needs
some some improve-
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ments.The research was conducted in several steps. In the first phase, some of the most
common Thenewresearch
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standards first phase,analysis
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From this first analysis, it was possible to list the disadvantages and the advantages. analysis were stud-
Once
a ied.
toolFrom
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selected it was possible
that matched to listcharacteristics,
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it was the advantages.
using a
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anthat matched
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building was chosencharacteristics,
as a case studyit wastovalidated
apply theusingenergy
a simple building. Then, an existing building was chosen
analysis methodology in a BIM environment. It was defined through the applicationas a case study to apply theof a
energy analysis methodology in a BIM environment. It was defined through the applica-
test model. Figure 1 shows the workflow diagram.
tion of a test model. Figure 1 shows the workflow diagram.
Figure1.1.Workflow
Figure Workflow diagram
diagram with
with research
researchframework.
framework.
The studies conducted in the first phase highlighted one of the main problems that
hindered the diffusion and use of energy analysis plug-ins in the BIM environment, namely
the lack of integration between the parametric architectural model with information content
(BIM, Building Information Model) and the energy model (BEM, Building Energy Model).
The problem is the possible loss of information during the conversion from BIM to BEM,
or worse, the lack of interpretation of the entire model. It is clear that this problem
diverges the actual workflow from the characteristic one of BIM, based on the principle of
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, 2252 5 of 31
interoperability, i.e., the possibility that allows different professionals to work and exchange
information on a single digital model.
As said, the lack of integration between BIM and BEM means that, during the energy
analysis phase, it is necessary to build a new model or implement the Building Information
Model with new information not managed by it.
Once the objective of the study was defined, we moved on to research and the choice
of software suitable for supporting a working methodology that allows full integration
between BIM and BEM already in the design phase. Various digital tools for energy analysis
were evaluated, and the choice of the software used in this study was determined by the
evaluation of some of its specific characteristics, such as the validity of the calculations
(with reference to current legislation) and certifications in the BIM field. To verify the
validity of the calculations, a sample building with characteristics suitable for evaluating
the effectiveness of the software was simulated.
The last phase of the study was dedicated to applying the digital tool and the method-
ology defined for the sample model to an existing building. The choice was determined
by the value and also by the simplicity of the building, which allows you to control the
result of the simulation process more precisely. The simplicity to which reference is made
does not concern the spatial and architectural quality of the building or housing, but
rather the relationships with the ground and the characteristics of use that allow a more
effective control of the results of the BEM energy analysis. The chosen building, in fact, has
simple thermal zones, with no particularities (of use or construction) that could alter the
calculation of the energy simulation. Finally, based on the detection of the limits and the
lacks, some further possible improvements of the tool have been suggested.
3. From BIM to BEM: Advantages and Limitations

The study and the implementation of methods to transform a “BIM” to a “BEM” are a
topic always more common in the scientific community. Indeed, BEM has a large number
of applications in the most varied cases of energy analysis. Moreover, as said, the available
tools have limitations (sometimes highly restrictive). For this reason, technicians are not
encouraged to use them. The main identified problem is the transmission of data between
the BIM modelling tools and the energy simulation tools. It limits the possibility to operate
with the least possible number of digital models.
The main formats are:
• The IFC is the standard format for exchanging information in BIM modelling. It is
the only format to have a certification. By using it, it is possible to upload most of the
information relating to a building with the exception of data relating to energy analy-
sis (such as occupancy profiles, data relating to external and internal temperatures,
systems, etc.);
• the gbXML is a format based on the IFC; it contains all the energy information. It was
developed specifically to operate in this field and it is the most popular among energy
analysis software. Indeed, some software only allows the import of this format to the
detriment of IFC (IES-VE, EnergyPlus, eQUEST).
It is therefore understood that, based on the software used, working times can increase
or be reduced to a minimum. It is possible that, once the BIM model of a building is
completed, it is exported to software for energy analysis. Sometimes, it happens that it does
not interpret the geometries well or even fails to import a lot of information previously
entered, effectively making the work already done useless. In this case, the technician has
to manually enter each missing item or, in the worst case, he/she has to build a model
specifically for the energy analysis. This procedure can be more or less long depending
on the building under consideration. This certainly differs from the BIM methodology
aim. Indeed, it provides for a faster and interoperable workflow by means of a single
model. The most commonly used choice in the architectural-energy field is to proceed
with the architectural design and postpone the energy analysis at the end with a separate
and specific calculation. Often this process leads to a meaningless analysis as this is
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, 2252 6 of 31
ascertained, which was designed with no room for improvement [26]. Obviously, the
process to be adopted should be the opposite: Support the design with energy analysis
from the early stages (which by its nature will be a summary, as you will not yet have all
the parameters to be able to make a more complex analysis) and direct the project towards
a more eco-sustainable way. With this in mind, obviously, a real transition from BIM to
BEM is required, instantaneous and managed by a single program. It is based on the digital
model that is being built. Consequently, the BEM should be automatically updated. This
procedure should reduce the time, the energy spent to work, and should allow a more
energy-saving design.
4. Short Review on Existing Tools

The quality of the product, the possibilities offered, and the use the user must do
influence the diffusion of a certain program. The most famous and common software
for BIM are Revit (Autodesk, San Rafael, United States) [27] and ArchiCAD (Graphisoft,
Budapest, Ungheria) [28] and then, Allplan (Nemetschek, Munich, Germany) [29], and
Edificius [30] (Acca Software, Avellino, Italy) [31]. The tools included in these software
are quite similar. They are equivalent to many functions and just a few advantages are
different. In all cases, as regards energy diagnosis, the use of one of these tools often is
not suitable.
The choices on the market are different, each with its peculiarities, therefore the main
characteristics of each software are examined below, giving precedence to the most common
BIM software and related plug-ins and then to independent programs.
4.1. Revit
Revit [27] is one of the most popular BIM software, both for its performance and
for its compatibility with other programs widely used in the construction sector (also
produced by Autodesk). It must be specified in this regard that Revit has not developed
great connectivity with software that is not part of the Autodesk suite. It is possible to find
compatibility problems even if almost all manufacturers try to interface as much as possible
with Revit. Energy diagnosis is allowed through an additional module, Energy Analysis,
which integrates the design features of Revit with the analysis features of Autodesk Green
Building Studio, an independent cloud service for energy diagnosis based on the DOE-2.2
simulation engine [25] (which complies with the ASHRAE 140-2007 [32] standard).
4.2. ArchiCAD
ArchiCAD [28], developed by the US company Graphisoft, is one of the two most
popular software for BIM design and has the IFC certification of buildingSMART. The
energy diagnosis can be carried out both by functions integrated into the program and
by a plug-in: EcoDesigner STAR. This latter is an integral part of the program itself. Its
calculation engine (VIP-Core by StruSoft) operates in compliance with the ASHRAE 140-
2007 and ASHRAE 90.1-2007 (LEED Energy) standards. Therefore, it operates in a dynamic
regime. The main novelty of the plug-in is the integration of the missing tools in the
package of standard tools (such as the calculation of thermal bridges or renewable energy)
and the ability to export files in .gbXML and .PHPP format, for easier collaboration between
professionals and technicians.
4.3. Allplan
Allplan [29], developed by Nemetschek, is the leading BIM-based software used in
Germany. It is among the programs certified by buildingSMART. Regarding the energy
functions, it does not have sufficient tools to conduct a correct simulation. So, in 2009, it
was implemented with a new module: AX-Energy. This module integrates the software
tools allowing it to carry out energy analyses according to Decrees 311/2006 [33] and
115/2008 [34] and UNI/TS 11300-1 [35] and 2 [36] standards, thus relying on an almost
stationary, rather than the dynamic, regime.
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, 2252 7 of 31
4.4. Edificius
Edificius [31] is a software produced by ACCA Software. It is the only Italian program
to have received the buildingSMART IFC certification. The construction of a BIM model
is accompanied, through an external program by the same company, by the construction
of a BEM model for the energy analysis of the architectural building. TerMus used the
EnergyPlus energy simulation engine based on the ASHRAE 140-2007 standards allowing
analysis in a dynamic regime. Unluckily, it is necessary to install a series of modules,
each with its own specific function (for example TerMus-PT calculates thermal bridges
and mold risk, TerMus-DIM deals with energy diagnosis and improvement interventions,
TerMus-PLUS for dynamic calculation and so on).
4.5. Design Builder

Design Builder [37] is an independent program based on the EnergyPlus simulation
engine (it is its graphic interface), capable of analyzing a building under dynamic conditions
from the energy point of view. The software has 3D modelling tools, but it is still possible
to import into it a model built with an external program compressed in .gbXML format.
Since it is not a software used purely for parametric modelling, it does not have the
buildingSMART IFC certification.
4.6. Open Studio

Open Studio [38] is another graphical interface of the EnergyPlus simulation engine.
It is available as a plug-in for the 3D modeling program SketchUp, with the particularity of
being free. Being a SketchUp plug-in, its modelling is more intuitive than other programs
with the same function (the IFC certificate is missing), while the analysis tools are not as
intuitive as those of other software.
4.7. Simergy
Simergy [39] was developed as an independent program. It uses the EnergyPlus
simulation engine, thus operating at a dynamic speed. Its user-friendly graphic interface is
particularly effective for its use as a calculation tool, while the 3D modelling integrated
in it is not easy and immediate to use. A peculiarity of the software is the possibility of
comparing different project hypotheses with relative analyses. Additionally, in this case,
since it is not a tool for parametric modelling, the IFC certification is absent.
4.8. TermoLOG
TermoLOG [40], by Logical Soft, is independent software that integrates parametric
modelling tools and energy diagnosis. There is the possibility to import models in IFC
format built with other programs. As a parametric modelling tool, it does not have build-
ingSMART certification. According to the standards dictated by UNI EN ISO 52016 [41],
and validated by the Politecnico di Milano according to ASHRAE 140-2017 [32], it operates
with a dynamic hourly engine (CENED + 2.0).
4.9. EcoDesigner Star

EcoDesigner Star [42] is a plug-in integrated into the ArchiCAD software. It is a
graphical interface of the VIP-Core calculation engine optimized to work in harmony
with the design tool in a BIM environment. This ArchiCAD extension was created with
the aim of facilitating the design of buildings, directing them immediately towards more
sustainable solutions. It is therefore a design tool and it does not allow the certification of
buildings according to Italian standards. So, in this case, certification must be carried out
using analysis software mainly dedicated to it. However, it is specified that the software
calculations are not to be considered incorrect or non-compliant with current standards. In
fact, they are based on data and specific parameters relating to the ASHRAE standard, and
in the input phase, these parameters can be modified in order to obtain results in line with
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, 2252 8 of 31
current legislation. It is not possible to carry out immediately and automatically to check
required by the regulations.
The novelty proposed with EcoDesigner STAR is to have, within a software in a BIM
environment, a powerful energy analysis tool. It is possible to work on a single Building
Information Model and transform it almost instantly into a Building Energy Model ready
to be analyzed. Moreover, it is also possible to orient the design of a building towards
more sustainable ways both from the point of view of energy consumption and that of
energy production through renewable sources. From the early stages of the project, an
energy analysis can be obtained by defining the parameters necessary for the calculation.
Therefore, an overview of the performance of the building and guide the designer towards
the best-integrated design solution can be carried out. Using this tool, the path to be
explored is established, and after having decided all the details of the building envelope
and systems, it is possible to proceed with a further analysis, this time more detailed, to
know the behavior of the building through a calculation dynamic, on an hourly basis. The
integrated plug-in has many advantages, e.g., the possibility to manage the workflow in an
optimal manner, and guarantees, both in terms of parameter input and in the output phase,
high versatility and a high degree of data customization. EcoDesigner STAR, through the
tools already present in ArchiCAD and connected to it, in the input phase allows you to:
• To build a BEM model from the BIM model, with the definition of thermal zones.
They are automatically detected, as well as all the constructive elements that delimit
them (walls, floors, doors, windows, beams, pillars, etc.); they can be viewed in 3D,
both as an overall volume and as specific elements with their properties (e.g., by
selecting a wall, it is possible to access all the parameters that define it, including the
thermo-physical properties and orientation);
• to select built materials, with related thermophysical properties, from a large catalogue,
or insert new ones with customized parameters, while maintaining the possibility of
changing the assigned parameters; these changes are automatically sent to the BEM;
• to geo-localize the building by entering its geographical coordinates, to set the north
and the elevation with respect to the sea level with the identification (automatic or
manual) of the quote 0; the information entered can be verified through a link with
Google Maps that indicates the position just defined;
• to define precisely both the surroundings of the building, by entering the type of land
with its thermo-physical properties, the wind and sun shields present, the climatic
data, such as air temperature, relative humidity, solar radiation, and wind speed;
they can be displayed graphically through monthly, weekly, daily, or hourly charts;
(downloading them directly from the dedicated server);
• to add thermal blocks to defined thermal zones that can be inserted; they are charac-
terized not only by the zones, but also by heating, cooling, and ventilation systems,
and by operation profiles. The systems that can be inserted are different, all already
present in a plug-in catalogue, but new ones can be added based on the type of those
present; the operation profiles are also already present in good quantity in the plug-in
library, but new ones can be added, customizing them in each of their parameters;
• to define the energy vectors and their costs;
• to calculate according to a finite element approach (FEM) the thermal bridges present
in the construction. It is possible using the “Detail” tool of ArchiCAD, which extracts
a 2D drawing from a plan or section of the project. In addition, it is possible to make
changes both in terms of geometry and materials and finally calculate the thermal
bridges through a special window, saving both the numerical data and the temperature
or heat flow graphs. Each thermal bridge can then be connected to the thermal block
to which it refers;
• to perform a solar analysis on each frame of the building with the creation of a graph;
it allows us to understand when the frame in question is exposed to the sun and in
what percentage;
In the output phase, it is possible to obtain:
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, 2252 9 of 31
• An illustrative report of the performed energy analysis. It includes a first part that
includes all the data common to the entire project (e.g., general graphs on the building’s
consumption and energy inputs);
• an excel spread sheet containing, in an extensive and detailed way, all the information
that makes up the report;
• a file format different from the ArchiCAD ones, such as .gbXML, PHPP, and a format
compatible with VIP-Energy, for exporting the Building Energy Model within other
programs for energy analysis or certification. It is also possible to export the project as
a “reference building” in order to make a comparison, during the energy simulation
phase, between two alternatives of the same project.
4.10. Selection Criteria and Choice of Software

The criterion that led to the choice of the specific software is based on the following
characteristics:
• Versatility, i.e., the presence of integrated functions that allow BIM modelling and BEM
modelling; the software for BIM modelling can be combined with a well-integrated
plug-in for energy analysis. In this way, it is possible to import and export building 2D
drawings, BIM modelling and 3D visualization, quasi-static energy diagnosis, dynamic
energy diagnosis, calculation of thermal bridges, and calculation of renewable energy
sources. The importance of this parameter is given by the significant limitation of
errors and simplifications that may arise from the management of the model with
different software;
• certification: The BIM software must meet the validity requirements required by
buildingSMART for IFC certification;
• in compliance with standards: The software or plug-in for energy analysis meets the
requirements of the most advanced energy diagnosis standards, such as UNI EN ISO
52016-1 [41] for the calculation in dynamic hourly regime, and ASHRAE 140-2017 [32]
and UNI/TS 11300 [35] on the monthly average stationary calculation.
The following table shows the BIM and BEM software and plug-ins already mentioned
in the previous paragraph. For each of them, the greater or lesser compliance with the
criteria described above is reported.
Table 1 shows the comparison of the eight examined software.
The first important difference concerns the IFC certifications. Indeed, it can be seen
that only the BIM software combined with the plug-in has the third requirement (e.g., the
buildingSMART certification).
The stand-alone BEM software, even if equipped with tools for the construction of
a BIM model, cannot match the software dedicated to BIM in terms of functions, inter-
operability, and complexity. The adoption of the BIM Software + plug-in combination
can guarantee a faster workflow. It is free from possible simplifications or misinterpreta-
tions of the data, resulting from exporting to external software from a different software
house. Moreover, regarding the compliance of the software with the parameter relating to
compliance with current legislation, many of them do not operate according to the Italian
guidelines for stationary and dynamic calculation. Nevertheless, the 8 software examined
comply (except for Allplan) with the ASHRAE 140-2007 standards relating to the validity
of the calculation adopted. This does not mean that the calculation tools are wrong, but
that these programs can only be used for energy diagnosis. For the compilation of energy
performance certificates (APE) and other certification documents, different software has
to be used. From the examination of these two parameters, the choice can be restricted to
a more limited number of software. The BIM + plug-in software solutions that meet the
requirements include:
• Termus (even if the latter is not really a plug-in but a program to complement the first
and completely compatible), which allows you to produce documents valid in Italy;
• ArchiCAD + Ecodesigner STAR and Revit + Energy Analysis, which have a similar
range of features, but do not produce documents conforming to Italian standards.
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Versatility Versatility Versatility Versatility
11300
11300
11300
11300
11300
11300
11300
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Bridges
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UNI/TS
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52016-1
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 +Allplan
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 (buildingSMART)  (buildingSMART
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3D/IFC
3D/IFC
3D/IFC
planAllplan
+ AX-Energia + AX-EnergiaAllplanAllplan + AX-Energia +Versatility
AX-Energia AX-Energia Versatility Versatility Versatility Versatility
11300
11300
11300
11300
11300
+ + + +
+ ++
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AX-Energia (buildingSMART) (buildingSMART) (buildingSMART) (b
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EN
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Renewable
Renewable
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+ SoftwareBIM
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+ SoftwareBIM
+ SoftwareBIM
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140-2007
140-2007
140-2007
140-2007
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2D Import
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2D
2D 2D
2D
UNI/TS
UNI/TS
UNI/TS
UNI/TS
UNI/TS
UNI/TS
UNI/TS
UNI/TS
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
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Bridges
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Bridges
ASHRAE
ASHRAE
ASHRAE
ASHRAE
ASHRAE
ASHRAE
ASHRAE
ASHRAE
Tool Tool Tool ArchiCAD + EcoDesigner ToolSTAR Tool
Thermal
Thermal
Thermal
Thermal
Thermal
Thermal
Thermal
Thermal
+ plug-in
ISO
ISO
ISO
ISO
ISO
ISO
ISO
ISO
3D/IFC
3D/IFC
3D/IFC
3D/IFC
2D3D/IFC
3D/IFC
3D/IFC
3D/IFC
52016-1
52016-1
52016-1
52016-1
52016-1
            
                      
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plan + Allplan
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AX-Energia + AX-Energia Allplan + AX-Energia
11300
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11300
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11300
11300
11300
plug-in
plug-in
plug-inplug-in plug-in
plug-in
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+
 + STAR
+EcoDesigner STAR   STAR ArchiCAD  +EcoDesigner   (buildingSMART)   Certification  Certification
(buildingSMART)  Certification
(buildingSMART)   (buildingSMART  Certification  (b
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
AD
ArchiCADEcoDesignerEcoDesigner STAR STAR
EcoDesigner EcoDesigner STAR
Energy
Energy
Energy
Energy
Energy
Energy
Energy
Energy
Renewable
Renewable
Renewable
Renewable
ENRenewable
2D
2D
2D
2D
2D
IFC IFC IFC Energy IFC IF
Energy
Energy
Energy
Energy
Energy
Energy
Energy
+ SoftwareBIM
SoftwareBIM
SoftwareBIM
+ SoftwareBIM
SoftwareBIM
140-2007
140-2007
140-2007
140-2007
140-2007
140-2007
140-2007
140-2007
2D Import
Import
Import
Import
2D Import
UNI/TS
UNI/TS
UNI/TS
UNI/TS
UNI/TS
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
Bridges
Bridges
Bridges
Bridges
Bridges
Bridges
Bridges
Bridges
ASHRAE
ENASHRAE
ASHRAE
ASHRAE
ASHRAE
Tool Tool Tool Tool Tool
Thermal
Thermal
Thermal
Thermal
Thermal
ISO
ISO
ISO
ISO
ISO
3D/IFC
3D/IFC
3D/IFC
3D/IFC
3D/IFC
52016-1
52016-1
52016-1
52016-1
52016-1
52016-1
52016-1
52016-1
            
                              
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
Import
Import
Import
Import
Import
Import
Import
Import
plan Allplan
+ AX-Energia
Allplan + AX-Energia
Allplan + AX-EnergiaAllplan
+ AX-Energia Allplan + +AX-Energia Allplan + AX-Energia Allplan + AX-Energia + AX-Energia
11300
Allplan
11300
+ AX-Energia
11300
11300
11300
11300
11300
11300
plug-in
plug-in
plug-in
plug-in
plug-in
+
AD
ArchiCAD
+ EcoDesigner
ArchiCAD
+ EcoDesigner ArchiCAD
STAR
+ EcoDesigner ArchiCAD 
STAR
+ EcoDesigner 
Edificius

STAR
+ EcoDesigner Termus
STAR
  ArchiCAD
 + Termus
STAR
   + ArchiCAD

 
EcoDesigner

 Edificius
 
 +
 EcoDesigner
STAR
  + Termus 
   IFC 
(buildingSMART)

STAR  IFC
 Certification 
  Certification
(buildingSMART) 
 
 Certification
(buildingSMART)
 

 Certification
  Certification
 IFC
  Certification
(buildingSMART
  IFC Cert (b
IF
Energy
Energy
Energy
Energy
Energy
Renewable
Renewable
Renewable
Renewable
Renewable
dificius Edificius
+ Termus + Termus Edificius Edificius
+ Termus Edificius
+ Termus
2D
2D
IFC IFC IFC

+ + SoftwareBIM
SoftwareBIM
SoftwareBIM
+ + SoftwareBIM
SoftwareBIM
+ SoftwareBIM
SoftwareBIM
2D Import
Import
Import
2D Import
2D Import
Import
2D Import
UNI/TS
UNI/TS
UNI/TS
UNI/TS
UNI/TS
ASHRAE
ASHRAE
ASHRAE
ASHRAE
ASHRAE
Tool Tool Tool Tool Tool Tool Tool Tool
Thermal
Thermal
Thermal
Thermal
Thermal
ISO
ISO
ISO
ISO
EN ISO
2D3D/IFC
2D3D/IFC
3D/IFC
2D3D/IFC
3D/IFC
 +  +     +  
    +     
      
   (building
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
plan + Allplan
+ ArchiCAD
AX-Energia + ArchiCAD
AX-Energia
+ Allplan + Allplan+Revit
AX-Energia + ArchiCAD
AX-Energia Allplan + AX-EnergiaAllplan +STAR
AX-Energia
plug-inplug-in
plug-in
plug-in
plug-in
plug-in
plug-in
+
AD
ArchiCADEcoDesigner
+ EcoDesigner STAR
EcoDesigner ArchiCAD 
STAR
EcoDesigner  
+ Energy
ArchiCADSTAREcoDesigner  
Analysis
STAREcoDesigner  +
ArchiCAD                 (buildingSMART)
   (buildingSMART)
     
 (buildingSMART) (buildingSMART)
 
(buildingSMART) (buildingSMART
  (b
     STAR
  EcoDesigner 
STAR
ArchiCAD
 EcoDesigner

 STAR

 +  EcoDesigner
   Analysis

   STAR
    
 
  
      
Energy
Energy
Energy
Energy
Energy
Renewable
Renewable
Renewable
Renewable
Renewable
Renewable
Renewable
Renewable
dificius Edificius
+ +Termus Edificius
+ Termus Edificius
+ +Termus Edificius
+ +Termus + +Termus Edificius +Revit
Termus
Edificius  + Termus
2D
2D
2D
            
+ SoftwareBIM
+ SoftwareBIM
+ SoftwareBIM
SoftwareBIM
t + Revit
Energy Energy
Analysis Revit
Analysis Revit
Energy Revit
Energy
Analysis Energy
Analysis Analysis Energy
UNI/TS
UNI/TS
UNI/TS
UNI/TS
UNI/TS
UNI/TS
UNI/TS
UNI/TS
ASHRAE
ASHRAE
ASHRAE
ASHRAE
ASHRAE
ASHRAE
ASHRAE
ASHRAE
Thermal
Thermal
Thermal
Thermal
Thermal
Thermal
Thermal
Thermal
 Allplan
 Allplan
  Allplan
   
                 
ISO
ISO
ISO
ISO
ISO
ISO
ISO
EN ISO
3D/IFC
3D/IFC
3D/IFC
3D/IFC
3D/IFC
3D/IFC
3D/IFC
3D/IFC
planAllplan
+ AX-Energia
Allplan + AX-EnergiaAllplan + AX-Energia Allplan
+ AX-Energia +Builder
AX-Energia + AX-Energia + AX-Energia + AX-Energia
+
software
Design
EN
EN
plug-in
plug-in
plug-in
plug-in
AD
ArchiCAD
+ EcoDesigner
+ EcoDesigner ArchiCAD
STAR ArchiCAD 
STAR
+ EcoDesigner 
+ EcoDesigner STAR
 Edificius
 Termus
STAR
ArchiCAD
+   Edificius
 

+Termus
ArchiCAD

+Energy
  
EcoDesigner

  Edificius
  
 +
 EcoDesigner
STAR
 + Termus 

 
Analysis
   
STAR
      
 

 

 
         
Energy
Energy
Energy
Energy
Energy
Energy
Energy
Energy
SoftwareBIM
SoftwareBIM
SoftwareBIM
SoftwareBIM
SoftwareBIM
SoftwareBIM
dificius
tDesign Edificius
+ Revit
Energy+ +Termus
Revit
Energy
Analysis Edificius
+ +Termus
Revit
Energy
Analysis Edificius
+ +Termus

Revit
Energy
Analysis Edificius
+ +Termus
 
Energy
Analysis Edificius
+ Termus  
Analysis   
Revit  
+   +Revit
 Termus
Analysis +  
Energy                  
Design
Builder Builder Design Design Builder Design
Builder  
Builder     
    Design     
Builder      
  

  

  
     
plan + Allplan
+ ArchiCAD
AX-Energia
+ Allplan + ArchiCAD
AX-Energia + ArchiCAD + 
AX-Energia + 
Allplan +
 + ArchiCAD +
AX-EnergiaAllplan 
 


+ AX-Energia    
             
plug-in
plug-in
plug-in
plug-in
 Open
 studio
STAR STAR  STAR
+ STAR STAR        EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
AD
ArchiCADEcoDesignerEcoDesigner STAR
+ EcoDesigner STAR
EcoDesigner
ArchiCADSTAREcoDesignerArchiCAD EcoDesigner EcoDesigner EcoDesigner
Stand-alone
Stand-alone
Stand-alone
Stand-alone
            
           
                 
SoftwareBIM
SoftwareBIM
SoftwareBIM
dificius Edificius
t + Revit
Energy+ Termus
+ Revit
Energy
Analysis + Termus Edificius  Edificius
+ Termus
  + Termus
     Edificius
    +
 Termus
Edificius
 Design   +
BuilderTermus
               
Stand-alone
+ Revit
Energy
Analysis + Revit
Energy
Analysis + Revit
Energy
Analysis + Revit
Energy
Analysis + Revit
Energy
Analysis + Energy
Analysis Revit Analysis + Energy Analysis
software
software
software
software
Design
Open
plan Design
Builder
studio
Open Design
Builder
studio Design
Builder
Open 
 Design
Builder
studio
Open 

 
 Builder
studio
Open 

 
 

studio 
 
 
 
Design
 
 
 


 
 
Builder
  
  

Open

 
 studio 


  

   
 


  
  


 

  







 



   

  

 
  
  
+ Allplan
+ ArchiCAD
AX-Energia
+ Allplan + AX-Energia + AX-Energia Allplan + ArchiCAD
AX-EnergiaAllplan + AX-Energia
plug-in
plug-in
plug-in
AD
ArchiCADEcoDesignerEcoDesigner STAR
+ EcoDesigner 
STAR
EdificiusArchiCAD  
Simergy
STAR
Edificius 
+EcoDesigner + 

TermusEdificius 
+
 
STAR
+
Termus 
+
EcoDesigner

 
Termus   
STAR 
  
     
    
     

 
   
 
Stand-alone
Stand-alone
Stand-alone
Stand-alone
Stand-alone
dificius Edificius
+ Termus Edificius
+ Termus Edificius
+ Termus + Termus + Termus Edificius
SoftwareBIM
SoftwareBIM
SoftwareBIM
t + Revit
Energy + Energy
Analysis Revit
Analysis 
+ Revit
Energy  
+ Energy
Analysis 
Analysis  
Revit  
+  
Energy  Revit Analysis + 
Energy  
Analysis             
software
software
software
software
software
Design
Open
plan Design
Builder
studio
Open
Allplan
+ AX-Energia
Allplan + Design
Builder
studio
Open
AX-Energia
Allplan + Design
Builder
studio
Open
AX-Energia

Allplan
+ Design
Builder
studio
Open 


AX-Energia 

Allplan + Design
studio
Builder

AX-Energia 

 

Allplan + 
 
Design
Builder

AX-Energia

 

Allplan + 
 
Design
Builder

Open 


AX-Energia 
 + 


 

studio
Builder
 
AX-Energia 

 
 Design 

Open


 
 

studio 

Builder

 


   
 
 




  

  



 

 


  








  






  
 


   

  
  
 
 
plug-in
plug-in
plug-in
       +  

+                 
   


 
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competitors the
Studio,
Design
and
Builder,
Opencompetitors
Simergy, the
Studio,
Design
and
Builder,
Open
competitors
Simergy,
based
Studio,
Design
and
Builder,
Open Simergy,
on based
Studio,
Design
and
Builder,
the
Open Simergy,
EnergyPlus
on based
Studio,
and
Builder,
the
Open Simergy,
EnergyPlus
on based
Studio,
and
the
Open
cal-Simergy,
EnergyPlus
on based
Studio,
and
thecal-Simergy,
EnergyPlus
on based
and
thecal-Simergy,
EnergyPlus
on based
thecal-EnergyPlus
onbasedthecal-Eneron th
designer. Thus, it nullifies the advantages of the BIM workflow. If the model was correctl
set, the ArchiCAD + Ecodesigner STAR solution automatically performs the transition
from the BIM model to the BEM model. It has the great advantage of not losing any infor
mation present in the BIM and recording in real time in the BEM model all the change
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, 2252 11 of 31
made to the BIM model. It enhances the aim of BIM design.
These considerations can be summarized in graphs in Figure 2.
Figure2.2.Comparison
Figure Comparisonof the analyzed
of the tools.tools.
analyzed
Each figure represents a tool. The vertexes are four main characteristics: Versatility,
Each figure
compliance with therepresents
standards,acertification,
tool. The vertexes
and the are four main characteristics:
“workflow-continuity”. Versatility
This latter
compliance
identified with the standards,
the advantage of not havingcertification, and
to open another the “workflow-continuity”.
software to conduct energy analysis. This latte
identified the advantage of not having to open another software to conduct
It leads to less interoperability since the changes made to the BIM will not be directly energy anal
ysis. It leads
reported in BEM.to less
Theinteroperability since
value related to the the changes
“versatility” made
was to the according
associated BIM will not be directl
to the
number
reported of in
features
BEM. available
The value (e.g., Open to
related Studio has 3/5 features,
the “versatility” wassoassociated
the value of its ver- to th
according
satility
number is of
0.6). The value
features related(e.g.,
available to theOpen
“compliance with3/5
Studio has thefeatures,
standard” sowas
the calculated
value of its versa
according to the number of standards complied with, e.g., Allplan + AX-Energia complies
tility is 0.6). The value related to the “compliance with the standard” was calculated ac
with 1/3 standards, so the value is 0.33. The value of the certification is equal to 1, if the
cording to the number of standards complied with, e.g., Allplan + AX-Energia complie
tool is certified, and 0 if it is not certified. The value of the workflow-continuity is equal to
1, if the tool has this characteristic, and 0 if it does not.
5. Modelling and Pre-Analysis of a Simplified Building

As a first step, the energy analysis of an apartment in a three-story building was
carried out to study the characteristics of the software using EcoDesigner STAR, a plug-in
for ArchiCAD. It allowed highlighting the main calculation characteristics and detecting
the first advantages and disadvantages of using this tool.
The choice was determined by the value and also by the simplicity of the building,
which allows us to control the result of the simulation process more precisely.
The structure is made up of a reinforced concrete frame made of rectangular section
beams and pillars (30 × 60 cm). The indoor walls are composed of non-insulated brick
blocks. It was geo-located in the city of Palermo. As regards the immediate surroundings,
it was decided to consider it not bordering other buildings.
The construction of the BIM model was carried out using the construction components
and materials already present in the program library. In this way, possible conflict situations
were avoided to better control the process. Figure 3 shows the three-dimensional view of
the building with the apartment examined in evidence.
beams and pillars (30 × 60 cm). The indoor walls are composed of non-insulated brick
blocks. It was geo-located in the city of Palermo. As regards the immediate surroundings,
it was decided to consider it not bordering other buildings.
The construction of the BIM model was carried out using the construction compo-
nents
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, 2252 and materials already present in the program library. In this way, possible conflict 12 of 31
situations were avoided to better control the process. Figure 3 shows the three-dimen-
sional view of the building with the apartment examined in evidence.
Figure 3. Three-dimensional view of the building with the apartment examined in evidence.
Figure 3. Three-dimensional view of the building with the apartment examined in evidence.
5.1. Switching to the Building Energy Model

Once the5.1.
BIMSwitching to the
model was Buildingthe
obtained, Energy Model
missing information was implemented for the
construction of theOnceBEMthemodel.
BIM model was obtained,
In particular, the missing
data related to theinformation
project site was
and implemented
its loca- for the
construction
tion with related climaticofdata
the BEM model. In particular,
(air temperature, relativedata related solar
humidity, to theradiation,
project siteandand its location
with speed
analysis of wind relatedand
climatic data (air
direction) temperature,
were relative
included. The humidity,
software solar radiation,
can download auto- and analysis
of wind speed and direction) were included. The software can
matically the information from the Strusoft Climate Server. The Strusoft server bases its download automatically
climate data on those provided by “Reanalysis NCEP” available on the website of the climate data
the information from the Strusoft Climate Server. The Strusoft server bases its
“NOAA-Cires onClimate
those provided
DiagnosisbyCenter”.
“Reanalysis NCEP” available
The information on the
obtained waswebsite
compared of the
with“NOAA-Cires
Climate
the climatic data usedDiagnosis Center”. The
by the EnergyPlus information
calculation obtained
engine. was compared
It is based on the data with the climatic data
collec-
i. 2021, 11, x FOR PEER REVIEWtion commonlyused by theasEnergyPlus
known calculation
“IGDG—Climatic data engine. It is based
G. De Giorgio” [43]on the data
(Figure 4). collection
13 of 32 commonly
known as “IGDG—Climatic data G. De Giorgio” [43] (Figure 4).
Figure 4.Figure
On the4.left
Onthe
theclimatic
left the climatic data obtained
data obtained from thefrom the server,
Strusoft Strusofton
server, on the
the right the right the data
climatic climatic
G. De Giorgio.
data G. De Giorgio.
The comparison shows that the climatic data used by the EcoDesigner STAR calcula-
tion engine are in compliance with those used by the EnergyPlus calculation engine, with
maximum and minimum temperatures very close to each other:
Figure 4. On the left the climatic data obtained from the Strusoft server, on the right the climatic
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, 2252 data G. De Giorgio. 13 of 31
The comparison shows that the climatic data used by the EcoDesigner STAR calcula-
tion engine are in compliance
The comparison with
shows that thethose used
climatic byused
data the EnergyPlus calculation
by the EcoDesigner STAR engine,
calcula- with
maximum and
tion engine minimum
are temperatures
in compliance with those very
used close
by theto each other:
EnergyPlus calculation engine, with
 maximum
Maximumandtemperature:
minimum temperatures very close to
36.9 °C—minimum each other: 4.62 °C (Strusoft);
temperature
◦ ◦ C (Strusoft);
 • maximum
Maximumtemperature:
temperature: 34.0
36.9 °C—minimum
C—minimum temperature
temperature4.624.79 °C (EnergyPlus).
• maximum temperature: 34.0 ◦ C—minimum temperature 4.79 ◦ C (EnergyPlus).
It was supposed that the slight deviations between the monthly temperatures were
It was supposed that the slight deviations between the monthly temperatures were
due to the different time intervals relied on for data collection. In particular, the Ener-
due to the different time intervals relied on for data collection. In particular, the EnergyPlus
gyPlus data refer to a period ranging from 1951 to 1970; while those of the Strusoft servers
data refer to a period ranging from 1951 to 1970; while those of the Strusoft servers are
areupdated
updatedfrom
from19481948
to to today.
today. Then,
Then, thethe areas
areas of the
of the building
building characterized
characterized by thebysame
the same
orientation, by the same usage profile and above all by the same system (thermal
orientation, by the same usage profile and above all by the same system (thermal blocks) blocks)
were defined
were defined(Figure
(Figure5).
5). ItIt was
was possible
possible totoidentify
identify only
only two
two thermal
thermal blocks
blocks (Figure
(Figure 4): that
4): that
of the
of the heated
heated roomsand
rooms andthat that of the
the unheated
unheatedrooms.
rooms.
Figure 5. Screen
Figure of the
5. Screen thermal
of the thermalblocks
blockswindow with3D
window with 3Dvisualization
visualizationof of
thethe selected
selected zones.
zones.
For each block, an operating profile and a plant system (heating, air conditioning,
and ventilation) were set. The software includes different operating profiles (residential,
commercial activity, hotel, cinema, museum, and others), but it was chosen to have a
more complete overview of the program and its potential, to create a new one. As for the
most common software, it is possible to select different schedules for different seasons:
One for the summer season (for the cooling plant) and one for the winter season (for the
heating plant).
It is possible to assign several thermal blocks to a single system or to assign a specific
one to a single thermal block. In particular, it is possible to set the use of a boiler for heating
and the production of domestic hot water to several thermal blocks; while the cooling
system is, if made with single units serving only one room at a time, it must be assigned
for each air-conditioned block. In this case, there is only a natural gas boiler for heating
and the production of domestic hot water. Furthermore, there is no type of summer air
conditioning and the ventilation is natural as it is normally the case in common homes.
The data relating to the autonomous heating system are very simplified. It is possible
to select the nominal power of the element, the type of control (with internal/external
sensor or by manual ignition), the type of energy source used, the cost of the energy used,
in order to obtain an estimate of the costs and consumption of that particular system. On
the other hand, the items relating to terminals are completely missing.
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, 2252 14 of 31
It is not possible to set the number of terminals and their performance. They can be
inserted as elements within the model, but they do not interface with the plug-in during the
calculation. For a more accurate analysis, it should be necessary to use an external program
that includes these attributes. In general, the number of parameters that can be selected is
less than the parameters available in the most common software for energy analysis.
For natural ventilation, the parameters to be set are accompanied by an hourly sched-
ule. In this case, it was set to keep the “system” active all year round. In the case of
mechanical ventilation, it is certainly useful for calibrating the best usage profile. In addi-
tion, it is also necessary to specify the air changes by choosing from four different units of
measurement. Furthermore, it is possible to select a function that uses automatically the
standard ASHRAE values.
Once all the elements of the building and their materials are set, it is possible to conduct
the calculation of the thermal bridges. Before proceeding with the calculations, the plug-in
updates the model with the latest changes and automatically detects errors or warnings,
which, if not resolved, do not allow it to continue with the simulation. Solving any errors
and starting the simulation, EcoDesigner STAR compiles a final report of the simulation.
5.2. First Results of the Analysis

According to the aim of this paper, some advantages and disadvantages were detected
already in this step. The main advantages are:
• Automatic construction of the BEM starting from BIM: The model obtained contains in
itself a lot of fundamental information for energy analysis, so a few other parameters
must be integrated;
• constant updating: Any type of modification made on the BIM model is automat-
ically reflected in the BEM and in the EcoDesigner STAR cards, without any loss
of information;
• reliability: The climatic data of the Strusoft server comply with other types of data
used by certified analysis programs (see EnergyPlus); furthermore, the calculations are
consistent with the parameters set and the result, for example, in terms of consumption,
and is plausible if compared with similar buildings;
• good definition of the parameters: The thermo-physical attributes on which one can
act are many, allowing us to represent even the most complex elements;
• optimized workflow: Thanks to the use of a single software and a single type of file, it
is possible to work quickly and accurately without the loss of data that may occur in the
passage of the file from one program to another. Furthermore, all EcoDesigner STAR
tools are best calibrated to operate without conflicts with those present in ArchiCAD;
• design support: This tool is not to be used a-posteriori, or after the project is finished,
to know only its behavior from an energy point of view. It must be used during the
design phase to ensure the maximum result in terms of performance; so, the final
simulation refers to a building designed in a truly sustainable way.
Even if they are not many and do not affect the use of the program, some constraints
were found and listed following:
• Poor definition of the parameters relating to the systems (especially heating);
• and therefore, it is not possible to insert the calculation of terminals of any kind or the
performance of the heating systems. It makes the calculation of these aspects more
limited. For this reason, further investigations with other programs should be carried
if necessary.
• A separate reasoning must be made for thermal bridges. They are connected to the
ArchiCAD Detail tool and they are configured as separate 2D drawings. If a material
or a type of construction element changes, the individual modification must be made
on the detail and the thermal bridge recalculated. Generally, this operation is not long
and it is easy, but for large architectural complexes with numerous thermal bridges
where changes need to be made, it is long and hard.
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, 2252 15 of 31
6. Application of the Methodology on an Existing Case Study

In order to verify their correctness, the procedures for the energy analysis in the BIM
environment, developed on a sample building, have been tested on a sample building.
Indeed, only a building complete in all its parts can provide the necessary information,
especially from the plant engineering point of view. Furthermore, in an existing building,
the systems have already been measured and have precise characteristics. They can be
traced back by recovering the technical sheets drawn up by the manufacturers. The research
of the case study was conducted by preliminarily defining some characteristics that the
case study building must possess. The aim was to validate the methodology and the final
results of the energy simulation. These features are:
• End use: The residential end-use is the one of greatest application interest, as well
because many policies aimed to reduce consumption of residential architecture;
• simplicity of the case study: Both in terms of geometric or constructive characteristics,
in terms of thermal zones and for the absence of peculiar characteristics (e.g., under-
ground habitable rooms, large glazed areas, or systems designed ad hoc and different
from the more common types);
• size: It is a medium size building. It implies the exclusion of individual housing units
exposed to the external environment on all sides (this condition would prevent testing
all the potential of the software), i.e., large apartment complexes consisting of a few
thermal zones, but repeated for several floors (in this case there would be a large
amount of data, not very significant from the point of view of the calculation), i.e.,
considering a 7-storey condominium, in the calculation phase, the significant floors
are the ground floor that exchanges heat with the ground, the floor that borders two
heated rooms both above and below, and the top floor that exchanges heat with the
outside through the cover. For the purposes of this study, it would be enough to
consider only one of the 5 floors bordering heated rooms. A good compromise is
therefore offered by buildings with two (or rather three) elevations above ground;
• building envelope and thermal plants: All the information about stratigraphy, fixtures,
and materials were known or can be inferred with a good approximation;
• it is an existing building.
6.1. Case Study Modelling

As said, this case study was selected as an important sample of existing architecture
characterized by the main data available, and, as well in this case, for simplicity. This
latter concerns both the spatial and architectural quality of the building or housing, and
the relationships with the ground and the characteristics of use that allow more effective
control of the BEM energy analysis. The chosen building, in fact, has simple thermal zones,
with no particularities (of use or construction) that can alter the calculation of the energy
simulation. It is characterized by a simple structure, and a regular plan, with essential
thermal zones (with a common residential type of user profile). It is a residential building
and has three apartments distributed over three floors above ground connected by an
external staircase. Only the apartment on the first floor was chosen.
It must be specified that some simplifications regarding the articulation of the architec-
tural and climate artefact can be made, where necessary, to ensure greater control over data
processing by the software. Moreover, some simplifications, e.g., regarding the articulation
of the architectural and climate artefact, were made. It endured greater control over data
processing by the software.
The selected building met all the necessary characteristics: The Langham House Close
residential complex in Richmond (England), designed by James Stirling.
The apartment building consists of 18 residential units. They are spread over three
elevations above ground (6 per floor). There are 3 different types of apartments, all based
on the same floor plan, which differ in the number of rooms:
• 3 apartments with one bedroom (approx. 65 m2 );
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, 2252 16 of 31
• 9 apartments with two bedrooms (approx. 75 m2 );

• 6 apartments with three bedrooms (approx. 85 m2 ).
The three smaller apartments, all on the ground floor, are identical to the apartments
with two bedrooms. One of the rooms is intended for the service of condominiums,
as an accessory storage. There are also three two-bedroom apartments on the ground
floor. On the next floor, there are three two-bedroom apartments and three three-bedroom
apartments; the same distribution is repeated on the second and last floor.
At each level, a pair of housing units are served by a common stairwell; one block
includes 6 apartments on 3 levels, served by a stairwell; the residential complex consists of
3 blocks (Figures 6 and 7).
Figure 6. Plans of the building.

Figure 6. Plans of the building.
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, 2252 17 of 31
Figure 7. Section ofFigure 7. Section of the building.

the building.
The entire structure is in load-bearing masonry, consisting of solid bricks (215 × 102.5
The complex× is located in a suburban area of London, characterized by a low popula-
65 mm) and 10 mm lime mortar joints. The wall structures are differentiated into three
tion density and types:
a strong natural presence; the residential complex is open on all fronts
and is surrounded• byThetrees [44].perimeter walls are cavity walls, very recurrent in English houses of the
external
The entire structure is of
first half inthe
load-bearing masonry,
twentieth century; consisting
they have of solid ofbricks
an overall thickness (215mm
about 270 ×
102.5 × 65 mm) and 10 (solid
mm brick of 102.5
lime mm—air
mortar gapThe
joints. of about
wall65structures
mm—solid brick of 102.5 mm);
are differentiated into
• the internal perimeter walls separate the apartments from each other and from the
three types:
staircase body; they are entirely in solid bricks without cavities and have a thickness
• The external perimeter
of 215 mm walls areofcavity
(length a singlewalls,
brick); very recurrent in English houses of the
• the internal dividing walls
first half of the twentieth century; they have are the partitions
an overallof the houses, formed
thickness by individual
of about 270 mm
courses of bricks (102.5 mm thick).
(solid brick of 102.5 mm—air gap of about 65 mm—solid brick of 102.5 mm);
Each apartment is characterized by the presence of a central block, where the fire-
• the internal perimeter walls separate the apartments from each other and from the
place is located, and the plant room; this block is in load-bearing masonry and plays a
staircase body;
decisive role inentirely
they are in solid
the load-bearing bricksofwithout
structure cavities and have a thickness
the building.
of 215 mm (length of a single
Regarding brick); the load-bearing masonry is combined with reinforced con-
the structure,
• the internal crete
dividing
beams walls are the
characterized by partitions
a rectangularof the houses,
section formed
(27 × 35 cm). by individual
They work as curbs for
the distribution
courses of bricks (102.5 mm of loads of the upper floors. Outside, the elevations are characterized by
thick).
the alternation between brick and concrete. In addition to the beams, visible directly from
Each apartment is characterized
the outside, byreinforced
there are other the presence of elements,
concrete a centralsuch
block, where
as the the gargoyles,
U-shaped fireplace
is located, and thetheplant room;
ventilation this block
openings, is in
and the load-bearing
panels masonry
under the windows. and
These plays
latter a to
serve decisive
further
stiffen the floors, linking the
role in the load-bearing structure of the building.masonry with the reinforced concrete of the beams and floors
[45].
Regarding the structure, the load-bearing masonry is combined with reinforced con-
crete beams characterized by a rectangular section (27 × 35 cm). They work as curbs for
the distribution of loads of the upper floors. Outside, the elevations are characterized by
the alternation between brick and concrete. In addition to the beams, visible directly from
the outside, there are other reinforced concrete elements, such as the U-shaped gargoyles,
the ventilation openings, and the panels under the windows. These latter serve to fur-
ther stiffen the floors, linking the masonry with the reinforced concrete of the beams and
floors [45].
The floors are reinforced slabs, made together with the beams and panels under
the windows. Their stratigraphy, described from bottom to top, varies according to the
reference plane:
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, 2252 18 of 31
• Ground floor slab: This slab rests directly on the ground and is composed of a bed
of compacted materials (generally stones, bricks, concrete) of about 20 cm thick, by a
15 cm cast-in-situ reinforced concrete slab, by a layer of bitumen, from a 3 cm screed,
from a 1 cm floor, mainly made of wood and stoneware;
• floor slab: 1–1.5 cm lime-based plaster, 15 cm cast-in-situ reinforced concrete slab,
bitumen layer, 3 cm screed, 1 cm flooring (wood or stoneware);
• roof slab: 1–1.5 cm lime-based plaster, 12.5 cm cast-in-situ reinforced concrete slab,
3.5 cm screed, bituminous sheath;
The fixtures are very similar to those envisaged in the project and consist of wooden
frames, painted white, with single glass.
Regarding the plants, it must be noted that this building, like many others built in
the 1950s, was not originally equipped with heating or cooling systems. The control of
the internal temperature was therefore obtained through natural ventilation. In the winter
season, the heating of the rooms was performed by a wood-burning fireplace in each single
house in the living area. Over the years, with the change in technology, product costs, and
lifestyles, each home has been equipped with a heating system. The individual owners
carried out the construction of the systems independently. For this reason, the components
of the systems (boiler, radiators) vary from apartment to apartment. The solution adopted
provides, in general, the installation of an autonomous internal boiler of about 24 kW in
the central masonry body. The boiler allows the production of domestic hot water and
the power supply of the terminals located in each room of the apartment. The terminals
are standard radiators. Given the differences between the apartments, a schematic was
adopted in the calculation phase, considering the system of a typical accommodation and
then applying it to the other apartments examined. Therefore, small differences (model or
commercial brand of the radiator, for example) were eliminated, given that they did not
affect the calculation results.
The fireplace is present in all apartments, but its function changes, e.g., in some cases,
it is not used. Its function is performed by the heating system (Figure 8). In other cases,
residents decided
residents decided totocontinue
continueto
touse
useititinincombination
combinationwith
withthe heating
the system,
heating maintaining
system, maintain-
the wood supply, and others replaced the wood-burning fireplace with a gas fireplace that
ing the wood supply, and others replaced the wood-burning fireplace with a gas fireplace
replaces the radiators in the living area.
that replaces the radiators in the living area.
Figure 8.
Figure 8. Pictures
Pictures of
of the
the flat with aa gas-fireplace
flat with gas-fireplace and
and aa wood-fireplace
wood-fireplace (above)
(above) and
and aa picture
picture of
of the
the external
external part
part of
of the
the
building with the analyzed part (below).
building with the analyzed part (below).
Figure 8 shows pictures of the flat with a gas-fireplace and a wood-fireplace and a
picture of the external part of the building with the analyzed part. The cooling systems
have never been installed because they are not necessary because the climate in London
in the summer is not very hot. Furthermore, it should also be considered that the building
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, 2252 19 of 31
Figure 8 shows pictures of the flat with a gas-fireplace and a wood-fireplace and a
picture of the external part of the building with the analyzed part. The cooling systems
have never been installed because they are not necessary because the climate in London in
the summer is not very hot. Furthermore, it should also be considered that the building is
located in a well-ventilated area, far from the densely built urban center.
The present study examined a single block consisting of 6 apartments, distributed in
pairs, on three elevations, and served by a common staircase. The limitation to a single
block of apartments does not affect the search results. It respects the modularity desired
by Stirling and excludes the repetition of identical elements, superfluous for the purposes
of the calculation. The delimitation required the modification of the perimeter walls of
the housing: The walls that previously bordered other apartments, in solid bricks, were
transformed into cavity walls bordering the external environment, as is already the case for
the rest of the construction.
The modelling process was conducted on the basis of two-dimensional graphic refer-
ences (plans, sections, elevations) produced through the redesign of the project drawings
and the verification of the relative congruence (between plan and section, for example);
the modelling phase was conducted, as required by BIM, specifying the material and
construction characteristics of the individual elements and also the parameters useful for
the energy simulation. An accurate BIM model of the building, defined in its architectural-
construction aspects, was developed. From the model, it is possible to extract plans and
sections, or inspect the building in three-dimensional views.
To export the model from the Building Information Model (Figure 9) and to import it
into the Building Energy Model, it is necessary to create the thermal zones to which each
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, x FOR PEER REVIEW
room is assigned. This operation, easy and immediate from an operational point of view,
requires particular attention from a conceptual point of view.
Figure
Figure 9. Navigable
9. Navigable virtual virtual model,
model, view of the view of the
main front. main front.
For the Stirling building, 7 thermal blocks were identified (Figure 10), one for each
of the 6For the Stirling
apartments, building,
and one 7 thermal
for the common areas.blocks were block
The thermal identified
referred(Figure
to an 10),
the 6 apartments,
apartment, andit one
contains within for thermal
as many the common
zones asareas. The
there are thermal
rooms block referr
that compose
it. Indeed, all the rooms are heated by the same system and therefore share the same
ment, contains within it as many thermal zones as there are rooms that comp
internal temperature. Furthermore, since this is a residence, the occupancy will also be
all the rooms
homogeneous are heated
throughout by the same system and therefore share the sam
the apartment.
perature. Furthermore, since this is a residence, the occupancy will also be
throughout the apartment.
For the Stirling building, 7 thermal blocks were identified (Figure 10), one for each of
the 6 apartments, and one for the common areas. The thermal block referred to an apart-
ment, contains within it as many thermal zones as there are rooms that compose it. Indeed,
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, 2252 all the rooms are heated by the same system and therefore share the same internal tem-
20 of 31
perature. Furthermore, since this is a residence, the occupancy will also be homogeneous
throughout the apartment.
Figure 10. Graphic visualization of the Building Energy Model (BEM) model with chromatic dis-
Figure 10. Graphic visualization of the Building Energy Model (BEM) model with chromatic distinc-
tinction of the thermal blocks.
tion of the thermal blocks.
Commonareas
Common areasdo donotnothavehaveany
any type
type ofof heating
heating and
and havehave a different
a different occupancy
occupancy pro-
profile
file from that of the apartments. After verifying the correct definition
from that of the apartments. After verifying the correct definition of the Building Energy of the Building En-
ergy Model, it is possible to proceed to enrich its information
Model, it is possible to proceed to enrich its information content. The operations carried content. The operations car-
riedwithin
out out within
the three theEcoDesigner
three EcoDesignerSTAR tabs STAR
are: tabs
Thermal are: Blocks,
Thermal Blocks, Structures,
Structures, and Openings. and
Openings.
Within Within the
the thermal thermal
block block
section, it issection,
possibleit istopossible
modifyto themodify the operation
operation profiles ofprofiles
each
of each thermal
thermal block with block with related
related heatingheating and ventilation
and ventilation systems,systems, to determine,
to determine, duringduring
the
the calculation phase, the thermal inputs deriving from external
calculation phase, the thermal inputs deriving from external and internal factors. The and internal factors. The
analysis on the operation profiles was calibrated on the basis
analysis on the operation profiles was calibrated on the basis of a typical English family. of a typical English family.
Theschedules
The scheduleswere wereset setincluding
includingthe thedifferentiation
differentiationofofthe thetypes
typesofofuse
useover
overthe
thedifferent
different
seasonsand
seasons andworking
workingand andnon-working
non-workingdays. days. To Toidentify
identifythetheperiod
periodofofoperation
operationofofthe the
heatingsystem,
heating system,the thegraphs
graphson onthe
theclimatic
climaticdata datagenerated
generatedby bythe
thesoftware
softwarewerewereexamined.
examined.
ItItisisthus
thusdetermined
determinedthat thatthe theapartment
apartmentisisinhabited
inhabitedfor foraafewfewhours
hoursaaday dayduring
duringwork
work
and school days and that, consequently, systems, lights, and appliances will be active forfor
and school days and that, consequently, systems, lights, and appliances will be active a
ci. 2021, 11, x FOR PEER REVIEW 21 of 32
a few
few hours.
hours. On Onthe the
otherother
hand, hand, the occupation
the occupation during during non-working
non-working days isdays is different,
different, when
when
the the apartment
apartment is occupied
is occupied for mostfor most
of the of the
day, day, generating
generating a more intensive
a more intensive use of
use of systems,
lights,
systems, andlights,
appliances.
and appliances.
A deep study made A deep it study
possible to trace
made in detail
it possible the characteristics
to trace and technical data
in detail the characteristics and technical data
sheets of the elements
sheets of that composethat
the elements it (Figure
compose 11).it Similarly
(Figure 11). to Similarly
the operationto theprofiles
operationset-profiles setting,
ting, heating and
heatingventilation systems must
and ventilation systems be assigned to each thermal
must be assigned to each block.
thermal block.
Figure 11.ofSchedules
Figure 11. Schedules of the
the operation operation
profiles. Noteprofiles.
how theNote how the
occupation ofoccupation
the houses of the houses
changes changes
between working and school
between working and school days (left) and non-working days (right) within the period of the
days (left) and non-working days (right) within the period of the year in which the heating is activated.
year in which the heating is activated.
EcoDesigner STAR, as already specified above, does not provide for the insertion of
the heating system terminals (radiators); therefore, only the parameters relating to the
boiler (nominal power and flow and return temperatures) and the production of domestic
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, 2252 Figure 11. Schedules of the operation profiles. Note how the occupation of the houses changes
21 of 31
between working and school days (left) and non-working days (right) within the period of the
year in which the heating is activated.
EcoDesigner STAR,
EcoDesigner STAR, as
as already
already specified
specified above,
above, does
does not
not provide
provide for
for the
the insertion
insertion of
of
the heating
the heating system
system terminals
terminals (radiators);
(radiators); therefore,
therefore, only
only the
the parameters
parameters relating
relating to
to the
the
boiler (nominal
boiler (nominal power
power and
and flow
flow and
and return
return temperatures)
temperatures) andand the
the production
production ofof domestic
domestic
hot water have been entered. Figure 12 shows the window in which the flow and return
hot water have been entered. Figure 12 shows the window in which the flow and
temperature of
temperature ofthe
theheating
heatingsystem
systemwater
water
is issetset
andand
thethe energy
energy source
source usedused to power
to power the
the boiler.
boiler.
Figure
Figure 12.
12. On
On the
the left,
left, the
the window
window in
in which
which the
the flow
flow and
and return
return temperature
temperature of
of the
the heating
heating system
system
water is set; on the left, the energy source used to power the boiler.
water is set; on the left, the energy source used to power the boiler.
The
The ventilation
ventilation ofof the
the apartments
apartments is natural. Therefore,
is natural. it was
Therefore, it was possible
possible to
to set
set parame-
param-
eters such as the number of air changes per hour (defined as ACH—Air
ters such as the number of air changes per hour (defined as ACH—Air Changes per Hour) Changes per
Hour) and the program for using the fixtures. The air exchange has been
and the program for using the fixtures. The air exchange has been set with a value of set with a value
of
0.50.5 ACH.
ACH. ForFor
thethe attribution
attribution of of
thisthis value,
value, thethe harsh
harsh climate
climate waswas considered.
considered.
The
The tab
tab called
called “Structures”
“Structures” cancan be
be used
used to
to insert
insert and
and calculate
calculate thermal
thermal bridges.
bridges.
The
The software manages
manages thethecalculation
calculationofofthethethermal
thermalbridge
bridgeinin
anan extremely
extremely intuitive
intuitive way:
way:
• With the Detail tool, it is possible to isolate the desired portion of the drawing in an
independent tab;
• the 2D drawing is graphically improved and the materials are attributed to the various
screens representing the construction elements;
• through a dedicated command, the calculation of the thermal bridge is started and
takes place in several phases: (i) In the first phase, the area relating to the external air is
selected with its temperature (already calculated based on climatic data, but possibly
editable); (ii) in the second phase, the same operation is carried out, this time for the
indoor air; (iii) we then move on to the identification of the foundation soil using a net
(if it is a matter of structures in direct contact with the ground, otherwise we move on
to the next phase); (iv) in the fourth phase, the thermo-physical characteristics of the
building materials are checked.
This calculation provides an interactive graph of the temperatures (or a graph of the
heat flow). The main thermal bridges identified in the analyzed case study concern the
combination of bricks and concrete beams/panels of reinforced concrete, and the material
discontinuities at the windows and the corners of the structure. The window fixtures
required a detailed study for each frame. Each window was decomposed optimally to not
distort the performance of the building envelope. In order to conduct this analysis, the
factors considered are: The juxtaposition between the concrete panel and the masonry wall,
the particular shaped frame and its contact with the bricks and concrete, and the angle of
the structure, which is identified as a thermal bridge in shape. Normally, these aspects
should be taken into account separately, but their positioning within a very small area does
combination of bricks and concrete beams/panels of reinforced concrete, and the material
discontinuities at the windows and the corners of the structure. The window fixtures re-
quired a detailed study for each frame. Each window was decomposed optimally to not
distort the performance of the building envelope. In order to conduct this analysis, the
factors considered are: The juxtaposition between the concrete panel and the masonry
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, 2252 22 of 31
wall, the particular shaped frame and its contact with the bricks and concrete, and the
angle of the structure, which is identified as a thermal bridge in shape. Normally, these
aspects should be taken into account separately, but their positioning within a very small
area
not doesthis
allow notprocedure.
allow this procedure.
In doing so, Inthermal
doing so, thermal
bridges bridges
would would be calculated
be calculated two or more two
or more
times, times,
in the in the to
elements elements
which theyto which
belongthey
andbelong
in theand in the ones.
adjacent adjacent ones. Itdistort
It should should
distort
the the performance
performance of the building
of the building envelope,envelope, whichbe
which would would
worsebethan worse theythan theyare.
really really
It
are.therefore,
was, It was, therefore,
decided to decided
break downto break
anddown and schematize
schematize these factors. these factors.
In this way,Inthey
thiswere
way,
considered
they were independent, and a correctand
considered independent, calculation
a correct was obtained.
calculation was obtained.
The
Thefirst
firstthermal
thermalbridgebridgecalculated
calculatedwas wasthat
thatbetween
betweenthe thereinforced
reinforcedconcrete
concretepanelpanel
under
underthethewindow
windowand andthetheadjacent
adjacentmasonry.
masonry.InInthisthiscase,
case,thethethermal
thermalbridge
bridgeofofthe theshape
shape
deriving
derivingfromfromthe the angle
angle formed by the the structure
structure(the(thewall
walltotothe theright
right ofofthethe panel)
panel) is
is cal-
calculated simultaneously.The
culated simultaneously. Thethermal
thermal bridge
bridge was divided into into two
twoparts:
parts:OneOnebetween
between
window
windowand andbrick
brickandandoneonebetween
betweenwindow
windowand andconcrete.
concrete.The Theresulting
resultingthermal
thermalbridge
bridge
value
value has attributed a length equal to the perimeter of the window in contact withthe
has attributed a length equal to the perimeter of the window in contact with the
bricks,
bricks,excluding
excludingthat thatpart
partinincontact
contactwith
withthe
thewall
wallininthe
theright
rightcorner.
corner.ItItwaswasbecause
becausethe the
effect
effectofofthis
thisthermal
thermalbridge
bridgewas wascalculated
calculatedininthethecase
caseofofthe
theprevious
previousstep. step.
The
Thethermal
thermalbridge
bridge ofof
thethe
window
window was calculated
was calculated in contact
in contact with the the
with concrete, consid-
concrete, con-
ering a vertical section of the frame (Figures 13 and 14). The length to
sidering a vertical section of the frame (Figures 13 and 14). The length to be attributed to be attributed to the
thermal bridge
the thermal is therefore
bridge the perimeter
is therefore of theofframe
the perimeter in contact
the frame with the
in contact withconcrete.
the concrete.
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, x FOR PEER REVIEW

Figure 13. Output of the calculation of the thermal bridge of the window inside a fictitious23wall
of 32
Figure 13. Output of the calculation of the thermal bridge of the window inside a fictitious wall (left)
(left) and dimensions considered for the length to be attributed to the thermal bridge (right).
and dimensions considered for the length to be attributed to the thermal bridge (right).
Figure
Figure14.
14.Output
Outputof
ofthe
thecalculation
calculation of
of the
the thermal bridge of
thermal bridge of the
the window
windowin incontact
contactwith
withthe
theconcrete
con-
crete (left) and dimensions considered for the length to be attributed to the thermal bridge
(left) and dimensions considered for the length to be attributed to the thermal bridge (right). (right).
In
Inthis
thiscalculation,
calculation,the
thefloor
floorin
in contact
contactwith
withthe
the beam
beam was
was also
also included
included because
becauseitit
gave rise to another thermal bridge. By calculating the thermal bridge of the concrete
gave rise to another thermal bridge. By calculating the thermal bridge of the concrete beam
in contact
beam with the
in contact floor,
with thethe lengths
floor, already
the lengths taken into
already takenconsideration for thefor
into consideration frames were
the frames
excluded. Once all thermal bridges were calculated, they were attributed to each thermal
block via the structures table. Alternatively, it is also possible to enter a table value of the
thermal bridge, but the specific calculation for each element is always to be preferred. In
this last sheet, the characteristics of the frame are specified. They can be selected from a
vast library inside the plug-in, divided into glass type and frame material. The alternatives
In this calculation, the floor in contact with the beam was also included because
gave rise to another thermal bridge. By calculating the thermal bridge of the concrete bea
in contact with the floor, the lengths already taken into consideration for the frames we
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, 2252
excluded. Once all thermal bridges were calculated, they were attributed to23each of 31
therm
block via the structures table. Alternatively, it is also possible to enter a table value of t
thermal bridge, but the specific calculation for each element is always to be preferred.
were excluded. Once all thermal bridges were calculated, they were attributed to each
this last sheet, the characteristics of the frame are specified. They can be selected from
thermal block via the structures table. Alternatively, it is also possible to enter a table
vast library
value ofinside the plug-in,
the thermal bridge, butdivided into calculation
the specific glass typefor and frame
each material.
element The
is always to alternativ
be
madepreferred.
availableInbythis thelast
library
sheet, are
the numerous
characteristics and canframe
of the satisfy areeven the cases
specified. They of
canfixtures
be wi
particular performances. However, if the characteristics to be entered do not correspon
selected from a vast library inside the plug-in, divided into glass type and frame material.
The present
to those alternatives
in made availableitbyisthe
the library, library possible
always are numerous and can satisfy
to manually even the them
overwrite cases for ea
of fixtures with particular performances. However, if the characteristics to be entered do
framenotor correspond
groups oftoframes. It is also necessary to start the calculation of the solar analy
those present in the library, it is always possible to manually overwrite
(Figure 15)for
them for all frame
each external frames
or groups (all internal
of frames. doors
It is also necessarywilltobestart
automatically
the calculationexcluded).
of the Th
operation has a double
solar analysis (Figure advantage. The frames
15) for all external first is(all
that the data
internal doorsobtained can be used by t
will be automatically
excluded). This operation has a double advantage. The first
program in the calculation phase, while the second is that the professional receives is that the data obtained can su
be used by the program in the calculation phase, while the second is that the professional
port, during the design, from the interactive graph produced as a result of the calculatio
receives support, during the design, from the interactive graph produced as a result of
This graph offers the
the calculation. Thispossibility
graph offersto investigate,
the possibility today-by-day, hour-by-hour,
investigate, day-by-day, the irradiati
hour-by-hour,
conditions of a given
the irradiation frame.of
conditions So, it is possible
a given frame. So, to itinstantly
is possibleevaluate theevaluate
to instantly effectiveness
the of t
effectiveness
positioning, of the positioning,
dimensions, dimensions,
or shielding system or shielding
adoptedsystem (Figure adopted
16). (Figure 16).
Figure 15. Three-dimensional

Figure display
15. Three-dimensional of of
display thetheselected window
selected window element
element andand relative
relative solar analysis.
solar analysis.
Before proceeding with the energy simulation of the building, it is possible to select
a “Reference building” in the calculation phase. This building is another virtual model
that serves as a benchmark. Thanks to it, the advantages and disadvantages of the two
alternatives of the same project can be immediately highlighted. Moreover, it is possible
to compare the building under consideration with a similar one whose performance we
already know. This is a completely optional operation. The simulation can very well
proceed with the building data without any reference building.
However, in this case, it was decided to build a reference building model both for com-
pleteness in the study of the possibilities of this software, and to highlight considerations
on the design applications extensively presented in the next paragraph. The construction
of the reference building was based on the same geometric-architectural model of the
case study building. The elements and climatic data used are completely identical; while
thermo-physical properties of the elements are different.
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, 2252 24 of 31
Figure 16.
Figure 16. Window
Window for
for selecting
selecting openings/frames
openings/frames on
on the
the left,
left, library
library of
of the
the glass
glass type
type and
and frame
frame material
material on
on the
the right.
right.
Before proceeding
In particular, with the energy
the calibration of the simulation of the building,
building envelope was based it ison
possible to select
the guidelines
adictated
“Reference building” in the calculation phase. This building
by the “Interministerial Decree of 26 June 2015—A” and by the “Interministerial is another virtual model
that
Decreeserves
of 26as a benchmark.
June 2015—B” [46]. Thanks to it, the adopted
The procedure advantages and disadvantages
is purely for study purposes, of theastwo
the
alternatives
building wasofnot thedesigned
same project
in Italy can
norbeisimmediately highlighted.
it subject to Italian Moreover,
regulations. it is possible
The parameters are
to compare
classified building according
in the standard under consideration
to the climatic with a similar
zones of theone whose
locality. performance
Italy we
is divided into
already
6 climaticknow.
zonesThis is a completely
ranging from zone Aoptionalto zone operation.
F [47]. They The simulation
differ in the valuecan of very well days
degree pro-
ceed
(GG).withThe the building data
“degree-day” withoutasany
is defined thereference
sum, over building.
one year, of the (positive) difference
However,
between in thisambient
the internal case, ittemperature
was decidedand to the
build a reference
average buildingtemperature
daily external model both[48]. for
completeness in the studyinofItaly
The indoor temperature the possibilities
has been setof 20 ◦software,
atthis C, so the anddegreeto highlight considera-
days are calculated
basedon
tions onthethisdesign
temperature. It is evident
applications that the
extensively Stirling in
presented building
the next cannot be placed
paragraph. Theincon-
the
Italian climatic
struction zones, therefore
of the reference building thewasproblem
based on arises
the of
samewhich climatic zone to choose
geometric-architectural modelto
obtain
of the parameters
the case study building. of the
Thereference
elementsbuilding.
and climaticIt was
datadecided
used are to completely
calculate the degree
identical;
days near
while London (Ham
thermo-physical Common,
properties of Richmond,
the elementsBC, areUSA). In doing so, also the fictitious
different.
climatic zone according
In particular, to Italian parameters
the calibration of the building was found.
envelope Although
was based in England the degree
on the guidelines
days (HDD
dictated by theand“Interministerial
CDD, respectively, DecreeHeating Degree
of 26 June Day and
2015—A” and Cooling
by the Degree Day) are
“Interministerial
used, they
Decree of 26 areJune
calculated
2015—B” differently
[46]. The than the Italian
procedure ones, and
adopted in particular,
is purely for study they refer to an
purposes, as
internal temperature of 15.5 ◦ C instead of 20 ◦ C. Comparing the GG calculated with two
the building was not designed in Italy nor is it subject to Italian regulations. The parame-
different
ters temperatures
are classified in theis standard
an operation that distorts
according to thethe resultszones
climatic at theof start,
the itlocality.
was necessary
Italy is
divided into 6 climatic zones ranging from zone A to zone F [47]. They differ the
to calculate them through an online application [49]. It was used to choose internal
in the value
temperature
of degree days to (GG).
be included in the calculation.
The “degree-day” is definedThe asoutput of this
the sum, overprocess
one year,is a spreadsheet
of the (posi-
in which
tive) the following
difference betweenare theentered:
internalThe periodtemperature
ambient of time considered
and theand temperature
average of the
daily external
reference indoor
temperature [48].environments, source, accuracy
The indoor temperature in Italyofhas
thebeen
climatic
set atdata
20 °C,forsothat
thearea, weather
degree days
station used, a table with monthly degree day values, and finally
are calculated based on this temperature. It is evident that the Stirling building cannot be the total. A value of
3063 GG was considered. It was compared with the parameter
placed in the Italian climatic zones, therefore the problem arises of which climatic zone to suggested by the Italian
standard.
choose So, thethe
to obtain Stirling building
parameters ofwas ideally placed
the reference in theIt“climate
building. was decided zone to F”.calculate
It indicates
the
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, 2252 25 of 31
the period of heating system operation and it allows identifying the parameters that the
building envelope must have to be considered as a reference building. EcoDesigner STAR
can overwrite the new parameters on the old, as a finished element, to quickly update the
Building Energy Model in a few steps. This avoids replacing the elements built previously
(walls, floors, windows, etc.) and having to model the building again. The resulting
building is better performing than the real building. It is because the building envelope
is made up of elements with high thermal efficiency. After starting the energy simulation
calculation, it is possible to save the building as a reference building. Finally, it can be used
as a term of comparison when analyzing the building with real parameters.
6.2. Simulation Results

All the aspects studied and exposed were useful for the correct construction of the BEM
model and a valid setting of the data for energy simulation. The previously built reference
building was included in the appropriate tool section. At the end of the calculation, a final
report was obtained.
The first section reports all the general data of the entire building, including geometric
ones, and some average values for all the thermal zones. The data concerning the energy
supplied to the building (heating system, lighting systems, internal heat inputs due to the
presence of people, etc.) are shown in the form of a weekly chart. It provides an immediate
understanding of which system requires the most energy. Therefore, it predicts which of
these fields can be the most expensive in economic terms. The first section contributes to
giving an overall view of the analyzed construction. The second section contains the same
information as the first, but this time concerning the individual thermal blocks. Each block
is associated with a weekly graph of the energy supplied and a graph on the energy emitted.
In the specific case of the Stirling building, the 6 apartments are shown (each definitive
with a thermal block) and a single common area (represented with a single thermal block).
It was noted that the apartments that require less energy in a year are those on the first floor.
It is because they exchange heat with the external environment only on three sides. On the
fourth side, the apartments border an unheated internal environment. Both at floor and
ceiling level they border with other heated rooms. Therefore, the heat losses are less. The
accommodations that require more energy to maintain an optimal internal temperature
are those on the top floor. Indeed, they exchange heat with the external environment even
from the ceiling. Moreover, the roof slab, compared to the floor slabs, has a lower thickness
and there is not any type of insulating layer. The apartments on the ground floor, on the
other hand, have energy consumption closer to those on the first floor. Another aspect
that can be immediately noticed is that the apartments on the right of the entrance (and
therefore facing north) have slightly higher energy consumption than those facing south.
The third section relates to the daily temperature profiles. It is possible to insert graphs
for each day of the year of any thermal block, to show the curves of internal and external
temperatures. During the design phase, these graphs are very useful to better calibrate the
systems and know when it is necessary to heat or cool the rooms. The fourth section is
dedicated to the energy consumption, environmental impact, and energy production (if
renewable energy sources are present). Energy consumption is shown both as a table and
as a graph, and is divided into categories (heating, cooling, domestic hot water production,
consumption due to mechanical ventilation if present, lighting, and equipment). If the
prices of the various energy sources are also set, the cost of the various systems can be
known. The environmental impact is instead calculated through the kg/y of CO2 emitted,
or the carbon dioxide expressed in kg emitted in a year.
The last section focuses on comparing the consumption of the building to be analyzed
and a reference building. It is possible, through this section, to compare two variants of
the same project, in order to know both the consumption of the two buildings. They are
compared in economic terms.
In Table 2, the results of the simulation were reported.
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, 2252 26 of 31
Table 2. Geometric characteristic of the analyzed apartment and simulation result ante and post ideal retrofit action.
Ground Floor 1st Floor 2nd Floor

Gross Floor Area [m2 ] 67.68 67.67 67.7
Treated Floor area [m2 ] 56.3 56.3 56.3
Geometry Data
Building shell area [m2 ] 78.09 75.74 132.41
Ventilated Volume [m3 ] 135.41 135.41 135.41
Glazing ration [%] 16 16 9
ante 2.18–2.18 - -
Floors [W/m2 K] post - - -
Heat Transfer ante 1.04–3.74 1.04–3.74 1.04–3.74
Coefficients External [W/m2 K] post 0.43–3.74 0.43–3.74 0.43–3.74
ante 2.35–5.70 2.35–5.70 2.35–5.70
Openings [W/m2 K] post 1.81–2.48 1.81–2.48 1.81–2.48
ante 6.59 6.3 4.52
Min (06:00, 29) [◦ C] post 6.07 6.61 5.96
ante 14.3 15.32 15.57
Internal Temperature Annual Mean [◦ C] post 14.33 14.62 14.37
Max (19:00 05 August) [◦ C] ante 20.36 21.83 27.99
post 18.6 18.65 18.91
Heating [hrs/a] ante 127 126 124

Unmet Load Hours post 128 126 128
Annual Supplies Heating [kWh] ante 16,249.43 14,766.44 22,253.95

post 12,243.32 11,741.08 13,873.37
Heating (19:00 14 December) [kW] ante 10.22 10.05 15.03

Peak Loads post 9.11 10.27 10.06
The proposed interventions are to be considered the hypothesis that complete and
conclude the entire process outlined above. It has to be remembered that the aim of this
paper is not the design of improvement solutions for the James Stirling building, but the
definition of a methodology that integrates the simulation energy in the BIM environment,
thus identifying a valid design support tool. Anyway, some possible interventions aimed
at reducing the consumption of individual apartments and improving the performance of
the entire building are listed below:
• Addition of an insulating layer in the roof slab; the second and last level are those
affected by greater heat losses; this occurs at the roof level, as can be seen from the
thermography; thus acting on the attic, inserting an insulating layer that does not alter
the aesthetic and structural components of the building, the consumption and costs
for heating these apartments would be reduced;
• of the ground floor slab in contact with the ground; the consumption of the ground
floor apartment, compared with the consumption of the apartment on the first level,
is higher; it is hypothesized that improving the contact between the ground and the
attic through the insertion of a crawl space, consumption can be reduced and made
similar to that of the apartment on the first level;
• strengthening of the insulation package of the external cavity walls; currently the walls
have an air gap and by blowing in insulating material their thermal transmittance
values could be improved, thus reducing heat loss;
• replacement of fixtures; for this intervention two solutions could be opted for: (i) The
first involves the complete replacement of the current fixtures with fixtures, similar in
materials, but with double glass and thermal break; (ii) the second, if the first cannot be
carried out due to the protected nature of the building, provides for the maintenance
of the current wooden frames and for the replacement of the single glass with a double
glass, capable of guaranteeing an improvement in the performance of the fixture.
By updating the BIM model with the new parameters, the BEM model will also be
updated automatically. So, the energy simulation calculation can be quickly started.
The consumption of the apartment at the ground floor after the application of the
retrofit actions is 12,243.32 kWh; while before the ideal retrofit actions was 16,349.43 kWh.
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, 2252 27 of 31
The apartment on the first floor adjoins two heated rooms, both at floor and ceiling
level, with an annual consumption of 14,766.44 kWh, before the ideal retrofit actions, and
of 11,741.08 kWh, after the ideal retrofit actions.
The consumption of this apartment is slightly lower than the ground floor apartment
and significantly lowers. The apartment on the second level borders on a heated room at
floor level and with the external environment at ceiling level. The annual consumption
calculated was 22,539.95 kWh before the ideal retrofit actions, and 13,873.37 kWh after the
ideal retrofit actions. Furthermore, it is possible to obtain the perspective sections of the
apartments in which it is also possible to read the distribution of temperatures within the
building envelope; this type of paper, following a correct interpretation, is particularly
useful for identifying the areas of intervention.
Looking at the thermography of the new configuration of the building, it can be seen
how the roof slab disperses less heat than the real configuration and how the windows and
cavity walls break down the heat flow.
7. Results
In the previous section, the results of the process were reported. By conducting this
study, it was possible to highlight the advantages and limitations of the tool EcoDesigner
STAR application and to outline a clear picture of the potential and criticality of the
chosen. The greatest advantage that is obtained from the use of ArchiCAD associated with
EcoDesigner STAR is the overcoming of one of the major problems in this field, namely
the transition from BIM to BEM. The modelling software allows the construction of a BIM
model according to certified tools. Plug-in allows its interpretation in BEM with an almost
instantaneous operation.
It is clear that this transition from BIM to BEM is error-free. Moreover, it is configured
as an immediate operation when the designer builds the BIM to then conduct an energy
analysis. Indeed, during the design and modelling process, it is necessary to better calibrate
the data entered in the BIM, the used elements and the relationships established with
other elements. It is also useful to facilitate the subsequent transformation of the Building
Information Model Building Energy Model. It has to be reminded that, according to the
BIM goals, the interoperability must take place from the earliest stages of design. To do this,
all the professional figures required should be involved to operate with the same objectives
and making the work faster and more effective.
If the BIM model is built to transform it into BEM, the operation is easy. In this way, it
is possible to apply an energy simulation in all the design phases of a building. Clearly,
this action occurs with degrees of detail and accuracy based on the progress of the project.
So, better integration between design and energy analysis can be achieved. This latter is
not relegating to the final phases of the project. As for typical energy analysis, at the end
of the simulation process, many data can be obtained (both directly and indirectly). From
them, it is possible to consider possible interventions aimed at reducing the consumption
of apartments.
Another advantage of this tool is the feasibility to compare two or more variants of
one of the same building. They can be compared both in the early stages of the project and
in the final stages, managing to choose the best solution according to needs.
The output data looks user-friendly. It is an important aspect for the designer, who
can know the advantages and disadvantages of a design choice almost immediately. For
example, it is possible to choose the orientation and materials of the building envelope and
start an initial energy simulation by mentioning the other fundamental data. Furthermore,
it is possible to propose a different orientation and different types of materials for the
building envelope, keeping the other data completely identical to the previous variant.
Finally, it proceeds with the simulation of a second alternative and automatically compares
it with the first, in order to obtain graphs on the savings and consumption of both and
choose the most suitable solution. In order to support this consideration and to check
the possible improvements of the tool, further comparison with a stand-alone software
notis relegating
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Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, 2252 of
can the
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conductivity
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there are Efficiency
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unit Nominal
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heating
BuildingandSystems
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energy
conductivity AC system
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[λ] Efficiency
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system ✕
X
✓
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✓
X ✕
✕ ✓
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✓—basic✓ ✓
lighting PowerSources typologies X
✓ X ✓
heating and cooling Vapour Embodied
diffusion Thermoregulation
carbon
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resistance capacity
factor
Control [µ ]
system Emission system
Thermoregulation✓—basic
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X ✕
✕
✓—basic✓ ✓
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physical properties Sources typologies ✓
✓—basic ✓
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[COP/EER] ✓—basic—
Thermoregulation
Power ✓ ✓—detailed
✓—basic
✓ ✓ ✓
Control system ✕
✓—basic
✕ ✓
Building Systems AClighting
unitEmbodied
Efficiency
Emission
energy[COP/EER]
Efficiency [η]
system SourcesPower
typologies ✓ ✓—detailed
✓ ✓
✕
8. Discussion Boiler
lighting
Embodied Emission
carbonsystem
Thermoregulation Sources
Controltypologies
system ✕
✓—basic
✓ ✓✓
✓—detailed
✕ ✕
heating and 8. Discussion
coolingThe main goals of Thermoregulation
this study
Nominal Power are the analysis
capacity Control of the interaction between
✓—basic
system ✓
✓—basic— ✕BIM
✓ and
✓—detailed
✓—detailed
lightingenergyThe simulation,
main goals8.through
ofDiscussion
this aPower
study
Nominal
Sources review
are[η]of the
the
capacity
typologies
Efficiency
mainof
analysis existing commercial
the ✓—basic✓
interaction
✕
tools, BIM
between and and
the
✓ iden-
✓—detailed
✓—detaileden-
Building Systems lighting tification
ergy Boiler
and
AC
simulation, application
unit
through of
Sources
Efficiency
a a
review
Control methodology
typologies
[COP/EER]
of
systemthe main in a BIM
existing environment
✓
✓—basic
✕
commercial by using
tools, and Graphisoft’s
the ✓
✓—detailed
identi-
8. Discussion
Emission system are the✕ ✓
BIM software Archicad The
heating and fication
cooling and application
and main
the
Control
Emission
of a
goals of this
plug-in
systemfor in
system
methodology
Thermoregulation a
studyenergy
dynamic
BIM environment
✓—basic
analysis ofEcoDesigner
simulation
✕ by
the interaction
using Graphisoft’s
✓—detailed
between BI
✓ STAR.
ergy The main goals
simulation, of thisa study
through review are
of the
the analysis
main of the commercial
existing interaction between BI
The
8.
BIM application
Discussion
software on a case
Archicad study gave
Thermoregulation
and the capacity
plug-inthe for
possibility to✓—basic
explore simulation and limits tools,
✓—detailed
advantagesEcoDesigner of and
ergy Nominal
simulation,
fication and through
application a dynamic
of review
a methodology
energy
of✓—basic
the main
in aexisting
BIM ✓—detailed
commercial
environment tools,
by usingand
Gr
this
8. commercial
Discussion
STAR. The tools and,
application consequently,
on astudyPower
case study to provide some ✓ to explore
possible improvements. ✓ and
Building Systems The AC
main unit
goals Efficiency
of this
fication
BIM and
software the gave
[COP/EER]
are
application
Archicadanalysis
ofthe possibility
of
thethe
a methodology
and
✓—basic
interaction
plug-in for BIM advantages
between
in adynamic ✓—detailed
BIM andsimulation
environment
energy en-
by using Ec
Gr
lighting As said in Section 4, the
Sourcesselection
Emission of
typologies
system the analyzed tool ✓
was based on
✕ for dynamic some main ✓
✓criteria.
ergy The main goals
simulation, of this
through
BIM a study
review
software
STAR.are The
are
of the
the
Archicadanalysis
main of
existing
and the the interaction
commercial
plug-in between
tools, andBIM
theand
energy en-
identi-
simulation Ec
The first characteristics
ergy simulation, theapplication
Control versatility
system
Thermoregulation
through
on athe
and case study✕gave
possibility
✓—basic
the possibility
to combine BIM to
✓ explore advan
modelling
✓—detailed
fication and application
STAR. ofaThe
areview of the main
methodology
application onaaexisting
in BIM
case commercial
environment
study bytools,
gaveexport
the usingand theto
identi-
Graphisoft’s
possibility explore advan
with well-integrated
fication and applicationplug-in for
Powerenergy analysis, to import and
✓ building 2D
✓ draw-
BIM software Archicad of and a methodology
the plug-in for in adynamic
BIM environment
energy by using
simulation Graphisoft’s
EcoDesigner
8.ings,
lighting BIM modelling and
Discussion 3D visualization,
Sources typologies quasi-static energy
✓ todiagnosis, dynamic✓energy
BIM
STAR.software Archicadon
The application and the
a case plug-ingave
study for the
dynamic energy
possibility simulation
explore EcoDesigner
advantages and
diagnosis,
The calculation
main of
goals of thisthermal
Control bridges,
system and calculation of renewable
✕ energy sources. The
✓ and
STAR. The application on astudycase are the gave
study analysis
the of the interaction
possibility between
to explore BIM and
advantages en-
second characteristic is that it meets the requirements set by the most
ergy simulation, through a review of the main existing commercial tools, and the identi- advanced energy
8.diagnosisandstandards,
Discussion
fication applicationsuchof aasmethodology
UNI EN ISO in 52016-1
a BIMfor the calculation
environment in dynamic
by using hourly
Graphisoft’s
regime,
BIM The and
software ASHRAE
Archicad 140-2017
and and
the are UNI/TS
plug-in 11300
for dynamic on the monthly
energy simulationaverage stationary
main goals of this study the analysis of the interaction between EcoDesigner
BIM and en-
calculation.
STAR. Finally, it on
meets the study
validity requirements required by buildingSMART for
ergy simulation, through a review of the main existing commercial tools,advantages
The application a case gave the possibility to explore and
and the identi-
IFC certification. All these requirements, according to the conducted study and the results
fication and application of a methodology in a BIM environment by using Graphisoft’s
reported above, were confirmed.
BIM software Archicad and the plug-in for dynamic energy simulation EcoDesigner
Although the results of this study are satisfactory, some critical issues and disadvan-
STAR. The application on a case study gave the possibility to explore advantages and
tages were found within the application and possible fields. They can be addressed in
future research, in order to improve digital tools and achieve perfect integration between
BIM and BEM, without the passage of digital models in third-party analysis software. As
shown in Table 3, the major limitation that has been detected is the poor personalization of
data relating to heating systems. The type of data that can be set is limited and inherent to
the fundamental characteristics of the system, such as the nominal power, the thermoregu-
lation, the nominal capacity, and the COP/EER. It is not possible to specify the efficiency
and to insert the heating terminals with their technical specifications. Furthermore, it is not
possible to set the vapor diffusion resistance factor of the material, the efficiency and the
emission of the system.
Thus, as improvements of the tools there is the implementation of the possibility to
set these latter parameters. In particular, giving the possibility to set the vapor diffusion
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, 2252 29 of 31
resistance factor of the materials, it will improve the calculation of possible surface and
interstitial condensation. Regarding the HVAC system, in order to provide a more precise
energy analysis, the tool could be improved by giving the possibility to set the efficiency
of the boiler and the emission system characteristics and typology. Furthermore, it could
be necessary to detail the parameters to be inserted regarding the nominal capacity, the
thermoregulation and the COP/EER. Finally, some details about the lighting system and
mainly the control system should be added.
9. Conclusions
The purpose of the paper is to study a new integrated energy simulation methodology
in a BIM environment by using Graphisoft’s BIM software Archicad and the plug-in for
dynamic energy simulation EcoDesigner STAR. They have been selected after a careful
study of the rules on energy analysis, an examination of the operational potential of
different software on the market, and research conducted by a wide scientific community
interested in various capacities in issues related to the interaction between architecture
and energy analysis. Thanks to the application on the case study, the advantages and
disadvantages of the existing tools were highlighted and compared. The greatest advantage
that is obtained from the use of ArchiCAD associated with EcoDesigner STAR is the
overcoming of one of the major problems in this field, namely the transition from BIM to
BEM. The modelling software allows the construction of a BIM model according to certified
tools. Plug-in allows its interpretation in BEM with an almost instantaneous operation
when the designer builds the BIM with the intention of conducting an energy analysis.
Another advantage of this tool is the feasibility to compare two or more variants of one of
the same building, both in the early stages of the project and in the final stages, managing
to choose the best solution according to needs. Furthermore, the output data looks user-
friendly. It is an important aspect for the designer, who can know the advantages and
disadvantages of a design choice almost immediately. Moreover, some critical issues and
disadvantages were found within the application and possible fields. The major limitation
that has been detected is the poor personalization of data relating to heating systems. The
type of data that can be set is limited and inherent to the fundamental characteristics of the
system, such as the nominal power, the thermoregulation, the nominal capacity, and the
COP/EER. It is not possible to specify the efficiency and to insert the heating terminals
with their technical specifications. Furthermore, it is not possible to set the vapor diffusion
resistance factor of the material, the efficiency, and the emission of the system.
These lacks can be used as a starting point for further improvements to the tool. The
possibility to set the vapor diffusion resistance factor of the materials would improve the
calculation of possible surface and interstitial condensation. Regarding a more precise
analysis, the tool could be improved by giving the possibility to set the efficiency of the
boiler and the emission system characteristics and typology and to detail the parameters
to be inserted regarding the nominal capacity, the thermoregulation, and the COP/EER.
Finally, some details about the lighting system and mainly the control system should
be added.
Author Contributions: Conceptualization, M.B., S.D.L. and G.L.; methodology, M.B., S.D.L. and
G.L.; software, S.D.L.; validation, M.B., S.D.L. and G.L.; formal analysis, M.B., S.D.L. and G.L.;
investigation, M.B., S.D.L. and G.L.; data curation, S.D.L.; writing—original draft preparation, M.B.,
S.D.L. and G.L.; writing—review and editing, M.B., S.D.L. and G.L.; visualization, M.B., S.D.L. and
G.L.; supervision, M.B. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.
Funding: This research received no external funding.
Institutional Review Board Statement: Not applicable.
Informed Consent Statement: Not applicable.
Data Availability Statement: The data presented in this study are available on request from the
corresponding author.
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, 2252 30 of 31
Acknowledgments: This study starts from the degree thesis [50], carried out by Simone Di Lisi with
the fundamental support of Arch. Fabrizio Agnello and of the Ing. Marco Beccali.
Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.
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1 Department of Engineering, University of Palermo, 90128 Palermo, Italy; giuliana.leone@unipa.it

Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, 2252. https://doi.org/10.3390/app11052252 https://www.mdpi.com/journal/applsci

3. From BIM to BEM: Advantages and Limitations

4. Short Review on Existing Tools

4.5. Design Builder

4.6. Open Studio

4.9. EcoDesigner Star

4.10. Selection Criteria and Choice of Software

IFC IFC IFC

       +  

Simergy Simergy Simergy Simergy

Simergy Simergy Simergy

5. Modelling and Pre-Analysis of a Simplified Building

5.1. Switching to the Building Energy Model

5.2. First Results of the Analysis

6. Application of the Methodology on an Existing Case Study

6.1. Case Study Modelling

• 9 apartments with two bedrooms (approx. 75 m2 );

Figure 6. Plans of the building.

Figure 7. Section ofFigure 7. Section of the building.

Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, x FOR PEER REVIEW

Figure 15. Three-dimensional

6.2. Simulation Results

Ground Floor 1st Floor 2nd Floor

Heating [hrs/a] ante 127 126 124

Annual Supplies Heating [kWh] ante 16,249.43 14,766.44 22,253.95

Heating (19:00 14 December) [kW] ante 10.22 10.05 15.03

28. Graphisoft. Available online: https://graphisoft.com/ (accessed on 10 January 2021).

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