Methods for Integrating Parametric Design with Building Performance Analysis

This paper discusses methods for integrating parametric design with building performance analysis procedures, specifically presenting tools and design methodologies that are suitable for whole building design. In this research, an ideal framework for integration of parametric and performance analysis procedures was developed. Then, the framework was tested using existing software applications, including building information modeling (BIM), non-BIM, parametric design and building performance analysis applications. Current applications that can integrate some form of building performance simulation with parametric modelling include Rhino 3D (non-BIM), Revit (BIM), and SketchUp (non-BIM). Revit and Rhino each have visual programming plugins to aid in the creation of parametric forms. In this research, three different workflows were tested. Specifically, Honeybee and Ladybug (for Rhino 3D), Insight 360 (for Revit) and Sefaira (for Revit) were evaluated. A case study building was used to test and evaluate the workflows, interoperability, modeling strategies and results. Three different building performance aspects were analyzed for each workflow: 1) energy modeling, 2) solar radiation analysis, and 3) daylighting. Simulation results from energy modeling, solar radiation and daylight simulations were recorded and analyzed. However, besides simulation results, the paper compares modeling procedures, parametric capabilities of investigated applications, ease of integration and interoperability. The results show a promising course for integrating parametric design with building performance simulations