Complex energy simulation using simplified user interaction mechanisms

Simulation   of   energy   systems   and   associated  thermodynamic   domains   is   very   powerful   in delivering   precise   information   at   high   resolution.  Modelling   software   requires   detailed   information about   the   energy   system.   The   specialised   user  usually has questions about specific aspects of the energy   system   and   may   not   be   interested   in   the  complete   set   of   outputs   available   from   simulation results. Similarly the specialised user may only be concerned about a subset of the inputs provided to the software. This suggests an opportunity to develop an input / output scheme tailored for the specialised user.   The   power   of   simulation   can   be   accessed  through   the  use   of  simplified  interfaces.   Although these   restrict   flexibility   in   terms   of   model   input   /  output data the specialised user is only interested in a subset of the capability of the underlying simulation tool. Robust results rely on a consistent underlying simulation context, this restricted interface ensures that only the parameters of interest to the users are modifiable   and   that   other   simulation   parameters  remain   fixed   ensuring   a   consistent   and   repeatable output. One such example of limited user interaction for both output and input is the ADEPT interface to whole   building   and   plant   dynamic   modelling   and  simulation suite ESP­r (ESRU 2002). The interface was  developed  in  the  context of   the   UK  domestic  heating   market.   This   paper   describes   the development   of   the   ADEPT   tool   and   associated  spreadsheet templates in order to provide a readily usable   platform   for   the   study   of   domestic   heating  systems   and   controls   for   plant   and   control components   manufacturers,   regulatory   authorities  and research organisations.