IDA IndoorClimate andEnergy is a Building performance simulation software. IDA ICE is a simulation application for the multi-zonal and dynamic study of indoor climate phenomenas as well as energy use. The implemented models are state of the art, many studies show that simulation results and measured data compare well.
User interface
The user interface of IDA ICE makes it easy to create simple cases but also offers the flexibility to go into detail of advanced studies. Many inputs are adaptable to local requirements such as climate data, material data, system components or result reports. IDA ICE provides a 3D environment for geometry modeling, the table-based input of boundary conditions provide good visual feedback and enables efficient quality check. A simple procedure for calculating and reporting cooling, heating, air demand, and energy, together with a built-in version handling system, makes it efficient to compare different systems and results. Advanced daylight calculation are achieved by interfacing the Radiancelighting simulation tool with result visualization in the 3D environment. A module for Appendix G of ASHRAE 90.1-2010 is available, this is used for example in LEED and BREEAM. The integrated radiosity method with single reflexion and one measuring point can be used for whole-year daylight analysis and allows modeling daylight-based control strategies. There is also the "Early Stage Building Optimization" user interface which makes it possible for users to experiment with variations in both buildings and systems at an early stage with a minimum of user input. A full range of component models for renewable energy studies is available, with boreholes, stratified tanks, heat pumps, solar collectors, CHP, PV, wind turbines, etc. An interface with OpenFOAM for detailed CFD studies is in development.
Strengths
IDA ICE can be used for complete energy and design studies, involving the envelope, systems, plant and control strategies. The equation-based approach enables solving more complex mathematical problems than software using imperative programming languages. The IDA ICE model library is open source, the model equations can be viewed and adapted, every variable in the whole system can be logged. The flexible architecture of the software makes it easy to develop the software continuously to adapt it to local requirements and languages, and to expand it with new capabilities. Additional features like parametric simulation runs and visual scripting support decision making in a parametric design process. The coupling with optimization engines like is available directly in the program. The big advantage compared to other BPS software is the coupled simulation of building envelope, systems and controls. IDA ICE library components are either written in the Neutral Model Format or Modelica. The software is fully scriptable with Common LISP. The IDA general purpose solver comes with a variable timestep, which guarantees that no event in the system will be missed.
Input
IDA ICE supports IFCBIM models generated by tools such as ArchiCAD, Revit, MagiCAD, and others. Geometry an shading on site can also be imported from SketchUp, Rhino or other geometry tools. Solar influx is evaluated through windows with full 3D accounting for the local shading situation. Additionally it has an integrated geometry editor where building and zone geometry can be modeled with 2D architectural drawings or pictures serving as template. Climate files like EnergyPlus weather files or ASHRAE climate files, can be downloaded and installed. The table-based input structure allows full interoperability with MS Excel and comparable software. Modern features like copy and paste and Drag&drop combined with visual input data check make input data management easier.
Output
IDA ICE output include tables, charts, reports and plots. 3D visualizations show geometry, solar shadings, color coded input data as well as results. Arrow animations in 3D visualize ventilation air flows, window energy balance, and wind driven flows. There are special reports for LEED submittal forms included. The diagram plots deliver vector graphics which allows detailed result analysis in custom reports. Results can be exported to Microsoft Word or Excel. A single zone IDA ICE model with default systems comprises a total of approximately 2 000 time dependent variables, any of which may be plotted. Predfined output files and reports cover
Zone heat and energy balances: solar radiation, occupants, equipment, lights, mechanical ventilation, heating and cooling devices, air leakage, heat bridge losses and surface transmission
Control signals: window opening and shading, signals for secondary and primary systems
Building occupancy: for each zone or the whole building
Heat and mass transfer: detailed heat fluxes of surfaces and air streams
