Complex Building Energy Modelling

Subject 702-627 (2009)

Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2009. Search for this in the current handbook

Credit Points: 12.50
Level: 9 (Graduate/Postgraduate)
Dates & Locations:

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2009:

On campus
For information about these dates, click here.
Time Commitment: Total Time Commitment: 120 hours: 36 hours contact, 84 hours non contact.
Prerequisites: Students taking this subject should have either completed, 702-350 (ABPL30033) "Introductuon to Building Energy Modelling" or have experience with energy modelling software, such as Eco Tect, Energy Plus, or Trnsys.
Corequisites: None
Recommended Background Knowledge: None
Non Allowed Subjects: None
Core Participation Requirements:

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability
Subject Overview: The subject teaches how to use two modelling approaches to investigate and communicate complex and innovative environmental solutions for energy efficient building design. Led by experienced software users from industry and from software manufactures, this course will allow students to specialise in a software tool which they may already be using at their work.

Based on a case study approach students will assess an existing or new building project and prepare the documentation arguing for the innovative approaches to energy efficiency that are proposed. Focus will not only be on learning how to model these complex scenarios, but also how to interpret their practicality and develop risk profiles allowing end users to be able to choose between innovation and benefit.
Assessment: One 2 hour examination (50%); One assignment analysing a complex project and presenting the various options for improved performance (50%).
Prescribed Texts: None
Breadth Options:

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.
Fees Information: Subject EFTSL, Level, Discipline & Census Date
Generic Skills: On successful completion, students will be able to:
  • model complex scenarios including natural ventilation, mixed mode/hybrid ventilation, use of passive techniques such as thermal chimneys, thermal mass, chilled beams, labyrinths, geothermal energy and solar energy
  • use modelling to develop risk benefit scenarios
  • communicate the benefits of various alternative options
  • interpret results
  • appreciate the relationship between design elements and thermal performance
  • be able to add meaningfully to a business case of an innovative system within an active actual project
Links to further information: http://www.abp.unimelb.edu.au/environments-and-design-students/melbourne-school-of-design-students.html
Related Course(s): Master of Architecture

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