BIM tools interoperability for designing energy-efficient buildings

The constructive complexity of the building envelope, together with the high degree of performance required in new dwellings, entails the application of computer-based modelling tools over the design processes. Furthermore, to achieve the NZEB (net zero energy building) qualification, the use of BPS (building performance simulation) tools during the early design stage becomes indispensable. In this context, the present research aims to analyse the interoperability potential offered by BIM-based (Building Information Modelling) software to optimize the modelling phase and to improve simulation results. The research shows advantages and drawbacks related to a workflow adoption based on 3D BIM implemented in Autodesk Revit, and on energy simulation in IDA-ICE environment, by means of a visual algorithmic programming tool. The Bestest ASHRAE case study has been considered as reference system to test and verify the actual process optimization. The outcomes identify what is the correct information set which is needed for the energy analysis to get suitable energy simulation result with the minimum data losses.