KB7003 - Building Energy and Environmental Modelling

What will I learn on this module?

You will learn about powerful new and emerging tools for modelling building energy systems and control. You will develop skills for simulating energy systems of relevance to buildings as well as modelling air flow in and around buildings. You will learn how to build dynamic energy, ventilation, and comfort models for multizone buildings.
You will investigate building thermal response including comfort, energy, interzone air movement and future weather modelling of multizone buildings.

How will I learn on this module?

The module will be delivered mainly using computer software supported by a small number of contextual lectures. You will learn through practical model building workshops using relevant software supported by short informal demonstrations and independent learning. Tutors will guide you through a series of model-building exercises and case studies by demonstrating each example in a series of short, progressive steps such that your confidence will grow as you proceed through each example case. As your skills develop, tutors will gradually withdraw from the demonstrating of modelling procedures to providing individual help as needed.

How will I be supported academically on this module?

Support will be provided by tutors as you develop your skills using the appropriate software. An informal guided learning approach will enable tutors to offer help and advice when needed on a one-to-one or small group basis. Problems raised through exploring student use of the software can be shared with the full class to enable everyone to learn from a shared experience. You will be encouraged to use the module’s discussion board on the University’s Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) to raise questions encountered during periods of tutor-guided independent learning and to make suggestions and observations so that the whole group can benefit.

What will I be expected to read on this module?

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)

What will I be expected to achieve?

You will be able to:

Knowledge & Understanding:
MLO1 Select and defend an appropriate method for modelling a given energy system.
MLO2 Appraise the limitations and weaknesses of the method used.

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
MLO3 Successfully design, build and use a simulation model describing the dynamic response of an energy system.
MLO4 Critically evaluate the results obtained from a dynamic simulation model of an energy system.

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
MLO5 Critique the benefits and limitations of dynamic simulation modelling compared with conventional professional design practice.

How will I be assessed?

The module summative assessment takes the form of two coursework tasks each weighted at 50% of the module marks. The first addresses MLO 1,2,3,4 and 5 and the second addressesMLO 1,2,3 and 4..

Formative assessment will take place as students develop their skills in applying knowledge and using the software. The formative engagement will involve students on an individual basis as they encounter problems. Formative feedback may be delivered digitally, or verbally during practical sessions.
Feedback will be provided for each of the submitted assessments to identify areas of good practice and to provide guidance for further improvement.

Pre-requisite(s)

None

Co-requisite(s)

None

Module abstract

Simulation modelling has been identified by architectural engineering design practitioners as a key growth skill for the future. This module seeks to address this by offering a balanced study of simulation modelling methods for multizone building modelling to investigate comfort, energy, and ventilation air movement. The module will be delivered using relevant software in order to enrich the development of practical modelling skills by students whilst also offering opportunities for efficient demonstration and one-to-one help and guidance from tutors. Assessment will be by means of two coursework tasksaddressing practical model-building and with an emphasis placed on critical analyses of results and of the methods used. Supportive individual feedback will be provided for each assessment which will identify areas of merit and provide guidance for future development.

Course info

Credits 20

Level of Study Postgraduate

Mode of Study 2 years full-time (with advanced practice in second year)
2 other options available

Department Mechanical and Construction Engineering

Location City Campus, Northumbria University

City Newcastle

Start January 2024 or September 2024 or January 2025

Fee Information

Module Information

All information is accurate at the time of sharing.

Full time Courses starting in 2023 are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but may include elements of online learning. We continue to monitor government and local authority guidance in relation to Covid-19 and we are ready and able to flex accordingly to ensure the health and safety of our students and staff.

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with additional restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors, potentially to a full online offer, should further restrictions be deemed necessary in future. Our online activity will be delivered through Blackboard Ultra, enabling collaboration, connection and engagement with materials and people.

 

Current, Relevant and Inspiring

We continuously review and improve course content in consultation with our students and employers. To make sure we can inform you of any changes to your course register for updates on the course page.


Your Learning Experience

Find out about our distinctive approach at 
www.northumbria.ac.uk/exp

Admissions Terms and Conditions
northumbria.ac.uk/terms

Fees and Funding
northumbria.ac.uk/fees

Admissions Policy
northumbria.ac.uk/adpolicy

Admissions Complaints Policy
northumbria.ac.uk/complaints