IN-91-07-3 -- Using Advanced Computer Technology to Design an Energy Savings Analysis Tool PDF

Describes the requirements and constraints imposed on a retrofit energy savings estimation model (RESEM) by the savings calculation method and by the expected user environment and the resulting characteristics and features of RESEM that were developed to satisfy these requirements. We then focus on several specific examples of advanced features, including the interactive interface as a carefully designed visual environment, the design of internal data structures to optimise communication between program modules, and the generation of complete prototypical building descriptions from limited information. Looking to the future, discusses planned enhancements that use knowledge-based expert systems to develop a smarter, more comprehensive, and flexible building prototyper, a fully automated matching of building simulations to utility data, and smart status monitoring and control for the overall analysis process.

KEYWORDS: expert systems, computer programs, computers, modernising, energy conservation, calculating, commercial, industrial, buildings, monitoring, controls, tariffs