Integration of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Energy Simulation (ES) for optimal energy form generation.

Computer use in architecture has extended beyond computer-aided design systems (CAD) to include dynamic modeling and animation software. The use of this technology moves beyond the rendering and refining of ideas to the generation of form. These programs are no longer mere tools, but have become collaborators in the creative process. However, using animation as a morphogenetic strategy does present potential problems. In a time-based process, an endless flow of geometric transformations gives rise to the problem of selection. Because a selected geometry is not the ultimate result of a research process, it is difficult to claim that one geometry presents a better performance-based solution than another. Building simulation offers the potential of providing an alternative method of generating architectural form. Currently, building simulation tools are used for analysis only, rather than for synthesis. Simulation programs are utilized to assess and predict many aspects of building performance, including indoor temperature and airflow, natural wind performance, daylight analysis, and building energy consumption. There are several obstacles, however, to using simulation tools as synthesis tools; little research has been done in combining the effect of different domains such as heat and daylight, and in design decision support methods. The following research provides an innovative design method to generate building form, utilizing dynamic outdoor and indoor conditions to reduce thermal load and to optimize the form. Integration of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Energy Simulation (ES) is used as a first step to more effectively analyze and model buildings and their surroundings. Interrelations between the different variables are identified, and an optimization technique is used to facilitate developing models for synthesis, and to generate designs based on performance.