Automated Multivariate Optimization Tool for Energy Analysis

Building energy simulations are often used for trial-and- error evaluation of “what-if” options in building design—a limited search for an optimal solution, or “optimization.” Computerized searching has the potential to automate the input and output, evaluate many options, and perform enough simulations to account for the complex interactions among combinations of options. This paper describes ongoing efforts to develop such a tool. The optimization tool employs multiple modules, including a graphical user interface, a database, a preprocessor, the EnergyPlus simulation engine, an optimization engine, and a simulation run manager. Each module is described and the overall application architecture is summarized.