SANTA ROSA, Calif. — DesignBuilder Software has released version 4 of its whole building energy simulation program, DesignBuilder. The company said this new version adds a substantial set of new features and improvements oriented to the different but overlapping needs of engineers and architects.

DesignBuilder Packages for Engineers consist of a set of tools to assist with the integration of mechanical systems within sustainable building designs. Various design scenarios for HVAC systems and controls, facades, lighting, and renewable technologies can be evaluated with relative ease, said the company. Using drag and drop air and water components, HVAC systems can be constructed within DesignBuilder from scratch. In addition, pre-defined HVAC templates, autosizing, and zone grouping features save significant input time. The most commonly used EnergyPlus HVAC system types are readily available including all ten ASHRAE 90.1 baseline HVAC systems.

DesignBuilder Packages for Architects ensure that designs meet performance targets at the early design stages by providing accurate and reliable energy and daylighting performance data. The architectural simulation packages allow architects to link with building information modeling (BIM) solutions, analyze solar shading, maximize the use of renewable technologies, and test façade options in one comprehensive software program.

New features available as modules in version 4 include:

• ASHRAE 90.1 Appendix G compatibility — ASHRAE 90.1 for 2007 and 2010 including constructions, materials, glazing systems, activities, lighting, and HVAC systems for both LEED certification and IRS tax credits.

• Optimization — helps identify design options with the very best combinations of cost, energy, and comfort performance.

• Cost — calculate the economic impact various building designs using construction cost, utility tariffs, and life-cycle analysis.

For more information, visit www.designbuilder.co.uk.

Publication date: 9/1/2014

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