Knowledgebase
DesignBuilder geometry convention flexibility
Posted by Luis Sousa on 22-Sep-22 11:24 AM
DesignBuilder’s geometry convention tools enable you to create one model and then easily switch between net and gross area/volume calculations, and also include/exclude construction thicknesses for internal partitions and floors etc. That means you may not need to re-build models for different codes!

You can do this by first using external perimeter measurements to draw your geometry and then choosing whether to use external or internal zone geometry to calculate areas and volumes.

Surface thicknesses can be set numerically (overriding construction data), which decouples areas and volumes from thermal performance of the building fabric. You get the correct thermal performance, whilst choosing how areas and volumes are calculated regardless…wow!

So now you can set up one model and use it for many building certification codes and schemes without spending days editing or creating new models. You can find out more here: https://designbuilder.co.uk/helpv7.0/#GeometryAreasAndVolumes.htm