computer

Lists the HOTCAN computer program devised for use in the Division of Building Research (NRC) program on low energy houses. It is written in BASIC and is capable of estimating the space heating requirements of residences. Gives basic equations and assumptions, and weather data required, along with a listing of the program and a sample run.

Reports on a measurement system developed by the Institute of Technology at Tastrup Denmark, involving a microcomputer- controlled system for registering air change rates using tracer gas (nitrous oxide) according to the constant concentration method. The system is designed for measuring and metering tracer gas in up to 10 separate rooms (using an infrared gas absorption detector). It operates through automatic data logging on a floppy disc and can run without supervision for extended periods (up to six days).

Reports on a comparative study of residential infiltration as predicted by computer model and as measured in the Mobile Infiltration Test Unit (MITU) as well as in selected test houses, both occupied and unoccupied. Sensitivity analyses were also conducted on each parameter contained in the model against data obtained from MITU.

The potential for energy consevation in space heating of new residential buildings is characterized using results from computer analysis, and from a survey of low-energy houses. Simulations of the energy requirements of a proto-type house in the USA at different levels of conservation show that much higher levels of conservation then those presently employed in new houses result in minimum life-cycle costs.

Reports on a comprehensive wind tunnel study of low-rise buildings at the University of Western Ontario, aimed at the definition of simple code specifications for the wind loading of such buildings. Describes an innovative technique for determining spatially-averaged time varying wind loads over various tributary areas of a structure. This data has been processed by computer to produce a time-history of more generalized loadings. Measurements have been carried out in turbulent flow conditions characteristic of thenatural wind.

Describes a variation of the conventional tracer gas measurement technique for measuring air change rates. Gives theoretical analysis of measurement results simulated with a computer for a complex system of six rooms where natural ventilation is measured in one case and fan-arrested ventilation in thesecond. Results from computer simulation are a measure of fresh air ventilation and not of a room's total air change rate. Diagrams illustrate assumed distribution under both conditions.

The aim of this research effort was to develop a mathematical model and digital computer program for accurately calculating the energy required by residential housing units. This model was used to establish an accurate procedure for determining the monthly and seasonal energy requirements of alltypes of residential structures. The mathematical model and digital computer program developed were verified by extensive calculations and field measurements applied to nine residential dwelling units.

Sets of hourly data, representing the long term mean of both temperature and solar radiation, have been prepared for 21 U.S. metropolitan areas. The 8,760 sequential hourly values for all weather elements, including solar data, have been placed on magnetic tape for use in computer calculations of energy requirements.

Reports investigation of mean and fluctuating pressure inside buildings, induced by wind using boundary layer wind tunnel and computer simulation techniques. Mean and root-mean-square fluctuating internal pressure coefficients were both found to be monotonic functions of the ratio of windward to leeward opening areas.< The case of a single windward opening was treated as a damped Helmholtz resonator.

Describes current projects for developing rational methods and systems for energy inspections in existing buildings, which is currently lacking. In future, these accurate functional measurements will contribute to more accurate assessments even in the case of simpler visual inspections. Theresults of the investigations will be collated in a data base which will laterform the basis of an applied energy inspection system.