Services
Energy Analysis
Fenestration Analysis
Solar Insolation Analysis
Daylight Analysis
Location Analysis
Light Pollution Analysis
Reflection & Glare Analysis
Shadow Analysis
Visibility Analysis
Acoustic Analysis
Services

ENERGY ANALYSIS[+]

ENERGY ANALYSIS [-]

 Description

The purpose of energy simulation is to estimate the total annual energy consumption of buildings so as to inform the building design process to create energy efficient choices. Energy analysis takes into account variety of factors involved in the design, including but not limited to:
  • Building location
  • Building orientation and interior layout
  • Architectural features (e.g. room locations, sizes, orientations )
  • Types of materials for walls, interiors, floors and roofing
  • Exchange of energy owing to infiltration of air into a building
  • Heat generated by the building's occupants
  • MEP system options
  • Lighting power density
  • Hot water requirement
  • On-site renewable energy
  • Direct purchase of energy to meet the project's energy needs
 Inputs

The typical inputs required to undertake the analysis are:
  • Weather Data
  • Site Plan
  • Architectural Plans
  • Fenestration Schedules and Properties
  • HVAC Plans and Details
  • Lighting Details
  • Occupancy Details
  • Equipment Loads
  • Domestic Water Heating
  • On-Site Renewable Energy Details
 Outputs

The typical outputs generated from the analysis are graphical and tabular representations of:
  • Energy consumption (kWh) generated for various systems modeled on a monthly basis
  • Monthly utility bills
 Tools & Approach
  • eQuest 3.61 B is used for the analysis. Customers will be offered choice of tools in the near future
  • Models are directly created in eQuest using drawings and specifications provided
  • BIM models created in the Revit Architecture 2009 suite can be imported via gbXML for geometric representation only
 Relationship to LEED® Credits

USGBC LEED® offers multiple credits under the Energy and Atmosphere category requiring the Proposed Building, as appropriately represented in a model to be more efficient than the Baseline ASHRAE 90.1 model in terms of energy and cost. The percentage cost saving of the proposed model over the baseline model helps in achieving LEED® points for this credit. In this situation Baseline ASHRAE 90.1 building must also be analyzed in addition to the Proposed building.

 Consulting Support

The analysis can be executed multiple times for various design configurations or application of different Energy Conservation Measures (ECMs) in order to support tradeoffs between energy efficiency and capital costs involved in the ECMs.



FENESTRATION ANALYSIS [+]

FENESTRATION ANALYSIS [-]

 Description

Fenestration analysis is the study of glazing and fenestration systems to determine their thermal, solar and optical properties. Fenestration systems play a very important role in the energy requirement of the building, hence this analysis assumes significance. The results of fenestration analysis can be used as an input into energy simulation in buildings. This helps in selection of optimum fenestration system for the building depending on location, orientation etc

 Inputs

The typical inputs required to undertake the analysis are:
  • Material of Frame
  • Frame Cross-sectional Drawing
  • Glazing System Configuration
 Outputs

The typical outputs generated from the analysis are graphical and tabular representations of:
  • U - value
  • Solar Heat Gain Coefficient
  • Visible Transmittance
 Tools & Approach
  • Windows 5.0 from Lawrence Berkley National Labs
  • Therm 5.0 from Lawrence Berkley National Labs
 Relationship to LEED® Credits

USGBC LEED® offers multiple credits under the Energy and Atmosphere category. Some of these require Energy Modeling of the Proposed Building. In order to conduct such analysis it is essential to have accurate data on the fenestration assemblies. This analysis support the development of such data and only indirectly supports the LEED® credits.

SOLAR INSOLATION ANALYSIS [+]

SOLAR INSOLATION ANALYSIS [-]

 Description

Solar insolation is the amount of electromagnetic energy (solar radiation) incident on the surface of the earth. Solar insolation analysis is the study of incident solar radiation impacting the object of study (building or project). Incident solar radiation (insolation) refers to the wide spectrum radiant energy from the Sun which strikes an object or surface. This includes both a direct component from the Sun itself (sunshine) and a diffused component from the visible sky (skylight). Depending on the site chosen, it can also contain a reflected component from other surfaces in the model and the ground. The objective of the analysis is to determine the amount of radiation received on the various surfaces of the building being analyzed to identify options for installation of Photovoltaic modules. It also helps in selection of facade materials that would support better interior environmental quality while improving energy efficiency.

 Inputs

The typical inputs required to undertake the analysis are:
  • Site Plan
  • Floor Plan
  • Roof Plan
  • Elevations
  • Fenestration Schedule and Properties
  • Weather data
  • Building Model
  • Building Properties
 Outputs

The typical outputs generated from the analysis are graphical and tabular representations of the amount of radiation (Watt-hours) received by the object in a given period of time.

 Tools & Approach
  • Autodesk Ecotect, version 5.6
 Relationship to LEED® Credits

Though insolation analysis does not directly satisfy any LEED® requirement, it is connected to indirectly to the following credits
  • Sustainable Sites - Heat island effect for roof and non-roof
  • Energy and Atmosphere - Optimized Energy performance
  • Energy and Atmosphere - Onsite Renewable Energy
 Consulting Support

If specific parameters are of interest to the design team, various iterations of design can be provided with an output of the specified parameter in graphic or table form to support design team decisions.



DAYLIGHT ANALYSIS [+]

DAYLIGHT ANALYSIS [-]

 Description

Good design for building requires sufficient daylight for tasks performed within a space. This is achieved by providing enough means to let in diffused light from the sky, but keep out direct light from the sun to prevent heat gain and glare. Daylight analysis is the process by which the amount of diffused sunlight that enters into the interior of a building is estimated. This analysis does not take into account the direct sunlight entering into the building, but it uses the luminance of the standard overcast sky from weather files as the measure of the exterior diffused sunlight. It helps us assess the impact of the exterior surfaces on the entry of this light into the interior floor space of the building.

 Inputs

The typical inputs required to undertake the analysis are:
  • Site Plan
  • Floor Plan
  • Roof Plan
  • Elevations
  • Fenestration Schedule and Properties
  • Weather data
  • Building Model
  • Building Material Properties
 Outputs

The typical outputs generated from the analysis are graphical and tabular representations of the amount of illumination received in the interior at 30" above floor level.

 Tools & Approach
  • Autodesk Ecotect, version 5.6
  • BIM models created in Revit Architecture can be used as to acquire geometric inputs
 Relationship to LEED®Credits

If opting for LEED® certification, then this analysis helps in designing the building as per the LEED® Daylighting requirements. The LEED® credit category that is influenced is Indoor Environmental Quality- Daylight and Views.

 Consulting Support

If specific parameters are of interest to the design team, various iterations of design can be provided with an output of the specified parameter in graphic or table form to support design team decisions.



LOCATION ANALYSIS [+]

LOCATION ANALYSIS [-]

 Description

The early consideration of environmental constraints and possibilities will help the creative designer to conceive a building whose design draws upon these factors. Location analysis enables designers to exploit climatic conditions in order to maintain comfort, minimizing the need for artificial control or the choice of suited materials. A typical location analysis covers:
  • Wind patterns: Prevailing wind conditions, seasonal wind and the temperature of wind
  • Temperature: Average, maximum and minimum rainfall
  • Humidity: Humidity conditions persisting in an area dictate the HVAC make up and in selection of appropriate materials for facade and building interiors
  • Climate summary: The micro-climate of a site dictated by topography, altitude and urban density
  • Rainfall: Average daily rainfall
 Inputs

The typical inputs required to undertake the analysis are:
  • Site Coordinates
  • 3D Building Model (Optional)
 Outputs

The typical outputs generated from the analysis are graphical and tabular representations of the wind, humidity, rainfall, microclimate and orientation data.

 Tools & Approach
  • Autodesk Ecotect, version 5.6
 Relationship to LEED® Credits

None of the LEED®credits are directly supported by this analysis.



LIGHT POLLUTION ANALYSIS [+]

LIGHT POLLUTION ANALYSIS [-]

 Description

Light pollution is excessive or obtrusive artificial light that disrupts ecosystems and has adverse health effects. This analysis aims to quantify the level of light pollution. It covers the following aspects.
  • Light trespass: Illuminance values at certain site physical locations
  • Over Illumination: Evaluation of areas exceeding the suggested lighting power density
  • Sky Glow: Brightening of sky caused by outdoor lighting and natural atmospheric and celestial factors
 Inputs

The typical inputs required to undertake the analysis are:
  • Site Plan and Building Elevations
  • Site Color Render View
  • Interior and Exterior Lighting Plan
  • Interior and Exterior lighting Schedule
  • Photometric File of each Luminary
 Outputs

The typical outputs generated from the analysis are graphical and tabular representations of:
  • Lighting power density for exterior
  • Light trespass for exterior lighting
  • Sky glow
  • Interior lighting analysis for light pollution
 Tools & Approach
  • DIALux 4.6 for light trespass analysis
  • Photometric viewer 3.3.0.2 for sky glow analysis
  • Model is directly created in DIALux using 2D plans and elevations provided
  • Photometric file in IESNA format is imported for analysis
  • Revit
 Relationship to LEED® Credits

USGBC LEED® offers Light pollution reduction credit under the Sustainable Site category requiring the design LPD not exceeding 80% for exterior areas and 50% for landscape and building facade as define in ASHRAE 90.1. Light trespass and sky glow requirement are to be met as per IESNA classified zones. Ensure that interior lighting are not creating any exterior light pollution OR ensure automatic controls are installed to turn off lights during non-business hours.

 Consulting Support

The analysis can be executed multiple times for various design configurations or application of different light fixture and their location on site.



REFLECTION & GLARE ANALYSIS [+]

REFLECTION & GLARE ANALYSIS [-]

 Description

Reflection analysis helps in understanding the glare-pattern on the site. This helps in designing the facade of the property with an understanding of its implications to nearby locations (e.g. pools, parking, roads). Using reflection analysis, it is possible to calculate and display the effects of reflections in the same way as shadows. Using a sun-path diagram, the entire annual potential for reflections at the selected focus point on a building can be obtained at any given point.

 Inputs

The typical inputs required to undertake the analysis are:
  • Site Plan
  • Floor Plan
  • Roof Plan
  • Elevations
  • Fenestration Schedule and Properties
  • Weather data
  • Building Model
  • Building Material Properties
  • Aerial image of building along with adjacent structures
 Outputs

The typical outputs generated from the analysis are graphical representations of the times during which the object of analysis will be in the point of reflection and glare.

 Tools & Approach
  • Autodesk Ecotect, version 5.6
 Relationship to LEED® Credits

None directly.

 Consulting Support

If specific parameters are of interest then, various iterations of design can be provided with support design decisions.


SHADOW ANALYSIS[+]

SHADOW ANALYSIS [-]

 Description

As shadows and reflections are an important aspect of building design, shadow analysis enables an understanding of the extent to which shadows from other local structures affect the specific property that is being designed. This helps to take the right decisions regarding placement of parking lots, solar panels, windows etc. Viewing shadows in this manner allows the designers to focus on specific objects that can hinder or support some of the functional aspects of the design, or quickly see the location of sun-patches as they travel across the floor and up a wall.

 Inputs

The typical inputs required to undertake the analysis are:
  • Site Plan
  • Floor Plan
  • Roof Plan
  • Elevations
  • Fenestration Schedule and Properties
  • Weather data
  • Building Model
  • Building Material Properties
  • Arial image of building along with adjacent structures (and some data)
 Outputs

The typical outputs generated from the analysis are graphical and tabular representations of the times during which the object of analysis will be in shadows.

 Tools & Approach
  • Autodesk Ecotect, version 5.6
 Relationship to LEED® Credits

None directly. It could influence the LEED® Category of Energy and Atmosphere- Renewable energy if photovoltaic systems are in the path of the shadows


VISIBILITY ANALYSIS [+]

VISIBILITY ANALYSIS [-]

 Description

Even at a preliminary design stage, it can be important to know the degree of visibility of specific objects from different parts of the building and workspaces. Visibility analysis helps in obtaining a useful assessment of the areas in a room that have adequate views to the outside through windows and openings. This analysis involves setting up the points over the floor plane of each room of analysis and then selecting the appropriate windows, allowing quick calculation of the exact area of unobstructed window visible from the point.

 Inputs

The typical inputs required to undertake the analysis are:
  • Site Plan
  • Floor Plan
  • Elevations
  • Fenestration Schedule and Properties
  • Building Model (Optional)
 Outputs

The typical outputs generated from the analysis are graphical and tabular representations of the times during which the object of analysis will be in the point of reflection and glare.

 Tools & Approach
  • Autodesk Ecotect, version 5.6
 Relationship to LEED® Credits

Directly relates to LEED® credit in the category Indoor Environmental Quality - Daylight and views

 Consulting Support

If specific parameters are of interest to the design team, various iterations of design can be provided with an output of the specified parameter in graphic or table form to support design team decisions.

ACOUSTIC ANALYSIS [+]

ACOUSTIC ANALYSIS [-]

 Description

Acoustics plays major role in degrading the environmental quality of space which may lead to occupant discomfort. Acoustic Analysis deals with analysis of sound inside the room, sound transmission through rooms, speech intelligibility and background noise levels inside the room. The main objective of this analysis is to reduce reflections of sound inside the room, reduce the sound being transmitted from outside and increasing the quality of speech inside the room.

 Inputs

The typical inputs required to undertake the analysis are:
  • Site plan
  • Floor plan
  • Elevations
  • One Hour Average Sound Level Contour from Local Government Body
  • Yearly Average Day Night Sound Level Contour from Local Government Body
  • Sound Transmission Class for all Windows, Doors and Walls from Architect
  • Sound Absorption Coefficients for various materials from respective manufacturers
  • 3D Building model (optional)
 Outputs

The typical outputs generated from the analysis are graphical and tabular representations of:
  • Reverberation Time Calculations for rooms
  • Background noise level calculations
 Tools & Approach
  • Ecotect v5.6
  • Models are directly created in Ecotect using drawings and specifications provided
  • BIM models created in the Revit Architecture 2009 suite can be imported via gbXML for geometric representation only
 Relationship to LEED® Credits

USGBC LEED® offers one prerequisite for schools under Environmental quality category requiring minimum background noise and minimum Reverberation Time inside the classrooms. Two credits can be achieved if the background noise level of class rooms is maintained within the prescribed limits.

 Consulting Support

The analysis can be executed multiple times for various design configurations or application of different materials to get optimum voice clarity inside the room and minimum background noise level.
Quick links
Customer Login
Contact Us
We are ready to answer any questions about our services and connect you with the appropriate resource you require.

 
Home   |  About Us  |  Services  |  Contact Us
Copyright © Leedanalysis.com All Rights Reserved
Powered by MindMatrix