‘Master Templates’ is a utility that allows the user to import and merge VE model data from a source master template into a target project. The master template can be exported from existing projects, allowing the user to re-use previously created data sets (profiles, templates, constructions etc.).
Master templates are in essence the strategy of a design embodied in a model made simply transferrable to a new model i.e. all data & assignment, but no geometry.
In some scenarios it is accepted that there will be limitations to master templates e.g. HVAC files – room assignment, multiple complex MacroFlo or construction assignments may require some user intervention after import, however this does not detract from the main advantages of master templates notably:
Early simple models; master templates will be directly applicable and re-applicable to rapidly create working models and what-if explorations; little user intervention is anticipated (or desired) at this simple scale. For master planning energy models the advantage increases dramatically as multiple buildings can be quickly & confidently populated with model data;
Detailed models; master templates will be used to increase productivity / design cycle speed on detailed working models; user intervention is anticipated e.g. HVAC files - room assignment, multiple complex MacroFlo settings – multiple window configurations in a room or multiple construction assignments in a room.
