PRM Navigator Introduction
The ASHRAE 90.1 Navigator establishes a workflow to guide the user through the ASHRAE 90.1 performance methods, both the Performance rating method (PRM) and the Energy Cost Budget Method (ECB). These methods can be used for USGBC LEED Energy & Atmosphere Credit 1 – Optimize Energy Performance and state level compliance.
What makes it different from other tools that are used for energy modeling?
- It could be generally categorized as a wizard, but it’s a ‘smart navigator’: The ASHRAE 90.1 Navigator not only allows users to implement and manage the PRM & ECB process in a new way it also ‘navigates’ how the user can access the different VE modules required (see required module list below) to complete the different types of analysis involved in the PRM & ECB process in a streamlined manner. The user is also given real-time feedback along the way so they can compare how their design stacks up to the 90.1 requirements.
- 5 in 1: All five models (proposed design + 4 baseline/budget models) required for the ASHRAE 90.1 methods live in one file versus having to maintain the data across five different model files.
- Input Data Once and Manage Edits effectively: The manner in which inputs are handled allows the user to input the data within the model, which influences the inputs in all models.
- Creating the Baseline/Budget Models: The required baseline/budget models are generated from the proposed design filtered through the requirements of ASHRAE 90.1.
ASHRAE 90.1 Navigator Structure:
The main objectives of the ASHRAE 90.1 Navigator is to:
1. Manage the overall process, including inputs, edits and cycles of the ASHRAE 90.1 performance methods (PRM & ECB)
2. Provide industry recognized defaults and input selection options (ASHRAE standards data as the basis) to assist the process
A range of individual software modules and features are available within the VE suite which can be used to construct a detailed ASHRAE 90.1 model. The user needs to manually switch between modules and know at which point in the process a specific feature needs to be used. In summary it can be difficult to understand how each module and feature fits into the overall ASHRAE 90.1 workflow analysis process.
The ASHRAE 90.1 Navigator is a tool which brings all of the individual VE modules and features together in a single area and presents the user with step-by-step smart navigation and management of the ASHRAE 90.1 workflow and analysis process. The Navigator is driven through the successful execution of specific actions and commands which are activated by the user in a defined sequence.
This smart navigation leads the user through the process of basic geometry creation, to constructions/thermal data assignment, and ultimately to the automatic generation of a full set of ASHRAE 90.1 compliant results which are presented in a format similar to the LEED EAc1 Letter Template.
The Navigator also provides the user with predefined prototypical ASHRAE data which can be used to populate the model with default baseline information.
The main structure of the PRM Navigator workflow includes:
1. Preliminary Data Setup
2. Envelope Thermo/Physical Properties
3. Space/Zone Thermal Template Data
4. Room Loads Calculations
5. Generate Baseline/Budget
6. HVAC System Selections and Sizing
7. Other Input Data
8. Simulations
9. Thermal Comfort (ASHRAE 55)
10. Utility Infrastructure & Cost
11. Results
The ASHRAE 90.1 Navigator functions as a series of actions that are accessed within the smart navigator tree structure that is located on the upper left side of the interface. The actions take the user to the relevant VE module and dialog box to complete the tasks associated with that topic.
VE Modules to utilize with the 90.1 Navigator:
The following list of VE modules are classified into two categories – required and beneficial. It is recommended that the user confirm which VE modules they have licenses for, so that they have the full capability of the 90.1 navigator available.
• Required:
o ModelIT
o Suncast
o ApacheSim
o ApacheLoads
o ApacheHVAC
o Radiance
• Beneficial Based on what type of efficiency measures or HVAC system is being analyzed:
o FlucsPro, LightPro
o Macroflo
