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A broad range of simulation software applications has become available for a variety of building performance assessments over the last three decades. The maturation of building simulation into a recognized and indispensable discipline for all professions, involved in the design, engineering, operation and management of buildings has now become the imminent challenge. The two key aspects dominate this evolution process: (1) attaining an increased level of quality assurance and (2) offering efficient integration of simulation expertise and tools in the overall building process.
With its original base functionality in the design phase, simulation is now becoming increasingly relevant in other stages of a project, such as during commissioning, as well as in the operational facility management phase. Meanwhile, the `appearance' of simulation is changing constantly, not in the least as a result of the Internet revolution. This is exemplified by new forms of ubiquitous, remote, collaborative and pervasive simulation. These and other trends and manifestations are discussed in the light of the challenges that the building simulation discipline faces in becoming a daily instrument in the design and operation of buildings.
Article Outline
1. Introduction
2. Simulation tools at the design analysis interface
2.1. Designer friendly versus design-integrated tools
3. Maturation of building simulation as a discipline
3.1. `Old' tool challenges
4. The role of design integration
4.1. A new initiative in design analysis integration
5. The `new' tool wish list
6. The effect of the WWW revolution
7. Final remarks
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