Dynamic Energy Modelling of Buildings: Thermal Simulation from edX

Many engineers are puzzled by questions such as: how to shift or reduce peak heating demand to obtain a better match with a smart grid or renewable energy system? What is thermally more efficient: a heavy concrete building or a light timber-frame building? How effective is night ventilation in warm periods?

This course will provide you with the answers to these and many other questions related to dynamic thermal behavior in buildings.

We start with a recap of the various heat transfer phenomena that affect buildings’ thermal behavior. Then you will learn how to combine them in dynamic energy balances of relevant building elements such as windows, façades, floors, indoor walls and ceilings, air, furniture, and even the occupants. You will be guided step by step through the construction of a differential equation network, enabling you to understand how to model thermal energy demand and temperature levels during the construction and use of existing buildings and new and innovative building systems.

Secondly, you will learn how to solve the resulting equations by using either finite difference or response factor methods. As a result, you will be able to discover for yourself the effects of different designs, and also understand the basic principles which underlie well-known Building Simulation Tools and HVAC software like Energy+, esp-r, DOE-2, Carrier-HAP or TRNSYS. Thus will help you to maximize your correct use of these tools in the future.

Finally, you will apply your knowledge by building your own test-software in the language of your choice (e.g. Matlab, R, Python) and solving several equation networks in order to answer the questions posed above and to thermally optimize rooms in buildings in terms of temperature and energy efficiency, and even to determine the thermal comfort level for occupants accounting for radiant temperatures.

What's inside

Learning objectives

How to apply diverse heat transfer laws to buildings.
How to construct a thermal nodes network using different grey-box and white-box models.
How to model a building’s dynamics, derive the corresponding balance equations, and solve the system of equations.

To understand the effects of buildings’ construction and dynamic behavior on temperature profiles and energy demand and loads.
How to combine pressure, mass and energy balances to model passive systems like a solar chimney or a ventilated cavity in a second-skin façade.

How to apply diverse heat transfer laws to buildings.
How to construct a thermal nodes network using different grey-box and white-box models.
How to model a building’s dynamics, derive the corresponding balance equations, and solve the system of equations.
To understand the effects of buildings’ construction and dynamic behavior on temperature profiles and energy demand and loads.
How to combine pressure, mass and energy balances to model passive systems like a solar chimney or a ventilated cavity in a second-skin façade.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Examines the application of diverse heat transfer laws to buildings, making it relevant to engineers and architects

Develops skills in constructing a thermal nodes network, which is crucial for modeling building energy demand and loads

Explores the modeling of building dynamics, balance equations, and system of equations, equipping learners with foundational knowledge

Investigates the effects of construction and behavior on temperature profiles and energy demand, providing practical insights

Covers the combination of pressure, mass, and energy balances to model passive systems, expanding learners' understanding of building systems

Taught by Laure Itard, an expert in thermal building behavior

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Dynamic Energy Modelling of Buildings: Thermal Simulation with these activities:

Review equations for heat transfer

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Analyze the heat transfer equations to ensure understanding prior to class

Browse courses on Heat Transfer

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Review equations and derivations
Solve practice problems

Review key concepts in heat transfer

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Review basic heat transfer principles to strengthen foundational understanding and prepare for more advanced topics

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Review lecture notes or textbooks on conduction, convection, and radiation
Solve practice problems to test your understanding

Follow online tutorials on thermal comfort

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Enhance understanding of thermal comfort principles and their application in buildings

Browse courses on Thermal Comfort

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Search for reputable online tutorials
Follow the tutorials and take notes
Apply the concepts to a practical example

11 other activities

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Review a textbook on 'Fundamentals of Heat and Mass Transfer'

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Gain a deeper understanding of heat and mass transfer principles

View Fundamentals of Heat and Mass Transfer, 8th... on Amazon

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Read the assigned chapters
Solve practice problems
Summarize the key concepts

Explore Building Simulation Software

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Familiarize yourself with building simulation software to enhance your understanding of thermal modeling.

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Identify popular building simulation software tools.
Find tutorials or documentation for the selected software.
Follow the tutorials to create a simple building model and run simulations.
Analyze the simulation results and learn how to interpret the output.
Explore advanced features and capabilities of the software.

Solve Thermal Modeling Problems

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Practice solving thermal modeling problems to solidify your understanding of heat transfer and dynamic energy balances in buildings.

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Select a problem from the course materials or textbooks.
Identify the relevant heat transfer phenomena and governing equations.
Apply the equations to set up a system of equations for the problem.
Solve the equations using finite difference or response factor methods.
Analyze the results and draw conclusions about the thermal behavior of the system.

Discuss Thermal Optimization Strategies

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Engage with peers to exchange ideas and perspectives on optimizing thermal performance in buildings.

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Find a group of peers to form a study group.
Schedule regular meetings to discuss topics related to thermal optimization.
Share knowledge, research, and insights on different strategies.
Analyze case studies and discuss best practices.
Work together on projects or assignments related to thermal optimization.

Write a Summary of Thermal Behavior Principles

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Summarize key principles of thermal behavior to reinforce your understanding and identify areas for further study.

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Review course materials and identify the most important principles.
Organize the principles into a logical structure.
Write a concise and clear summary.
Read and edit your summary to ensure accuracy and coherence.
Share your summary with peers or instructors for feedback.

Practice developing energy balance equations

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Reinforce your ability to derive and solve energy balance equations for various building elements to predict temperature and energy profiles

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Work through examples provided in course materials or online resources
Create your own practice problems and solve them

Explore open-source software for building energy modeling

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Enhance your understanding of how modeling tools work by exploring different software options and their capabilities

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Research and identify open-source building energy modeling software
Follow tutorials or documentation to learn the basics of the software
Use the software to model a simple building

Create a presentation on a passive design strategy

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To reinforce understanding and evaluate presentation skills

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Research different passive design strategies
Choose a strategy and develop a presentation
Present the strategy to a small group

Attend a workshop on 'Building Energy Audits'

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Acquire practical skills in conducting energy audits to improve building performance

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Find a relevant workshop
Attend the workshop and actively participate
Implement the learned techniques in a practical setting

Design and present a thermal energy optimization plan

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Apply your knowledge to a practical scenario, developing a plan that demonstrates your ability to optimize thermal energy use in buildings

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Select a building or space to analyze
Identify areas for improvement in energy consumption and thermal comfort
Design and evaluate potential solutions
Develop a comprehensive plan outlining the proposed optimizations
Prepare a presentation to share your findings

Participate in a building energy modeling competition

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Challenge yourself in a competitive environment and gain valuable experience in applying your modeling skills

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Identify and register for a relevant competition
Form a team or work individually
Develop a building model and optimization strategy
Submit your entry for evaluation
Attend the competition and present your work

Career center

Learners who complete Dynamic Energy Modelling of Buildings: Thermal Simulation will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Building Energy Analyst

A Building Energy Analyst is a professional responsible for the analysis and evaluation of building energy performance. This role involves the application of engineering principles and computer modeling to identify and implement energy-efficient solutions in buildings. The course, Dynamic Energy Modelling of Buildings: Thermal Simulation, provides a strong foundation in the understanding of building thermal behavior and energy demand. By learning how to construct thermal network models and solve energy balances, learners will develop the skills necessary to optimize building designs for energy efficiency and occupant comfort.

See salaries and explore the career path for Building Energy Analyst

Building Simulation Engineer

A Building Simulation Engineer uses computer models to analyze and optimize building performance. This role involves the application of computational fluid dynamics and heat transfer principles to simulate building energy use, thermal comfort, and indoor air quality. The course, Dynamic Energy Modelling of Buildings: Thermal Simulation, provides a strong foundation in building simulation techniques and the underlying principles of heat transfer. Learners will develop the skills to create and analyze building simulation models, enabling them to evaluate design alternatives and make informed decisions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Building Simulation Engineer

Thermal Comfort Specialist

A Thermal Comfort Specialist ensures that indoor environments are comfortable and healthy for occupants. This role involves the assessment of thermal comfort conditions, identification of discomfort factors, and implementation of measures to improve thermal comfort. The course, Dynamic Energy Modelling of Buildings: Thermal Simulation, provides a strong foundation in the understanding of human thermal comfort and the principles of thermal energy transfer. Learners will develop the skills to evaluate thermal comfort conditions, analyze the effects of building design and HVAC systems on occupant comfort, and make recommendations for improved thermal comfort.

See salaries and explore the career path for Thermal Comfort Specialist

Energy Efficiency Consultant

An Energy Efficiency Consultant provides advice and recommendations to businesses and individuals on how to reduce energy consumption and improve energy efficiency. This role involves the assessment of building energy performance, identification of energy-saving opportunities, and implementation of energy efficiency measures. The course, Dynamic Energy Modelling of Buildings: Thermal Simulation, provides a strong foundation in the understanding of building energy dynamics and the principles of energy efficiency. Learners will develop the skills to analyze energy consumption patterns, evaluate energy-efficient technologies, and make informed recommendations for energy conservation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Energy Efficiency Consultant

Energy Auditor

An Energy Auditor conducts energy audits of buildings to identify areas of energy waste and recommend energy-saving measures. This role involves the assessment of energy consumption patterns, analysis of building energy performance, and development of energy conservation plans. The course, Dynamic Energy Modelling of Buildings: Thermal Simulation, provides a strong foundation in the understanding of building energy dynamics and the principles of energy efficiency. Learners will develop the skills to conduct energy audits, analyze energy consumption data, and make recommendations for improved energy performance.

See salaries and explore the career path for Energy Auditor

Thermal Energy Engineer

A Thermal Energy Engineer designs, analyzes, and optimizes systems for the efficient use of thermal energy. This role involves the application of heat transfer principles to various industries, including power generation, manufacturing, and building design. The course, Dynamic Energy Modelling of Buildings: Thermal Simulation, provides a strong foundation in thermal energy principles and modeling techniques. Learners will develop the skills to analyze and simulate thermal energy systems, enabling them to design and improve systems for optimal performance and energy efficiency.

See salaries and explore the career path for Thermal Energy Engineer

Sustainability Manager

A Sustainability Manager develops and implements sustainability strategies for organizations. This role involves the assessment of environmental impacts, identification of sustainability opportunities, and implementation of sustainability initiatives. The course, Dynamic Energy Modelling of Buildings: Thermal Simulation, provides a strong foundation in the understanding of building energy efficiency and the principles of sustainable building design. Learners will develop the skills to evaluate the environmental performance of buildings, develop sustainability strategies, and make recommendations for improved sustainability.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Manager

HVAC Systems Engineer

An HVAC Systems Engineer designs, installs, and maintains heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. This role involves the application of thermodynamics and fluid mechanics principles to ensure the efficient and effective operation of HVAC systems in buildings. The course, Dynamic Energy Modelling of Buildings: Thermal Simulation, provides a strong foundation in the understanding of building thermal behavior and HVAC system dynamics. Learners will develop the skills to analyze and optimize HVAC system designs, enabling them to improve system performance and reduce energy consumption.

See salaries and explore the career path for HVAC Systems Engineer

Researcher

A Researcher conducts scientific research to advance knowledge in a particular field. This role involves the design and execution of experiments, analysis of data, and publication of research findings. The course, Dynamic Energy Modelling of Buildings: Thermal Simulation, provides a strong foundation in the principles of thermal modeling and simulation. Learners will develop the skills to conduct research on building energy performance, develop new modeling techniques, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Researcher

Renewable Energy Engineer

A Renewable Energy Engineer designs, installs, and maintains renewable energy systems, such as solar photovoltaic and wind turbine systems. This role involves the application of renewable energy principles and engineering techniques to harness renewable energy sources and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The course, Dynamic Energy Modelling of Buildings: Thermal Simulation, provides a strong foundation in the understanding of building energy demand and the potential of renewable energy systems to meet this demand. Learners will develop the skills to analyze renewable energy technologies, evaluate their performance, and integrate them into building designs.

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Mechanical Engineer

A Mechanical Engineer designs, analyzes, and maintains mechanical systems, including HVAC systems, power plants, and manufacturing equipment. This role involves the application of engineering principles and computer-aided design tools to ensure the efficient and reliable operation of mechanical systems. The course, Dynamic Energy Modelling of Buildings: Thermal Simulation, provides a strong foundation in the understanding of heat transfer principles and the dynamics of mechanical systems. Learners will develop the skills to analyze and design HVAC systems, evaluate system performance, and make recommendations for improved efficiency.

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Architect

An Architect designs and oversees the construction of buildings. This role involves the application of architectural principles, building codes, and design software to create functional and aesthetically pleasing buildings. The course, Dynamic Energy Modelling of Buildings: Thermal Simulation, provides a strong foundation in the understanding of building thermal behavior and the principles of energy-efficient design. Learners will develop the skills to evaluate building designs, optimize energy performance, and make recommendations for sustainable and efficient building construction.

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Data Analyst

A Data Analyst collects, analyzes, and interprets data to identify trends and patterns. This role involves the application of statistical techniques and data visualization tools to extract insights from data. The course, Dynamic Energy Modelling of Buildings: Thermal Simulation, provides a strong foundation in the principles of data analysis and the application of data to the field of building energy performance. Learners will develop the skills to collect and analyze building energy data, identify patterns and trends, and make recommendations for improved energy efficiency.

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Project Manager

A Project Manager plans, executes, and closes projects within defined constraints. This role involves the application of project management principles and tools to ensure the successful completion of projects. The course, Dynamic Energy Modelling of Buildings: Thermal Simulation, provides a strong foundation in the understanding of project planning and management techniques. Learners will develop the skills to plan and execute building energy modeling projects, manage project teams, and ensure the timely and successful delivery of project objectives.

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Teacher

A Teacher educates and instructs students in a particular subject or field. This role involves the development and delivery of lesson plans, assessment of student learning, and provision of feedback. The course, Dynamic Energy Modelling of Buildings: Thermal Simulation, provides a strong foundation in the principles of thermal modeling and simulation. Learners will develop the skills to teach students about building energy performance, the application of thermal modeling techniques, and the design of energy-efficient buildings.

See salaries and explore the career path for Teacher