DesignBuilder is structured as a modular solution, comprising a core 3-D modeller and up to nine modules that work together to provide in-depth performance analysis for any building. You can pick individual modules or choose one of our packages.

Packages

For architects: If you’re designing a renovation or new-build project, DesignBuilder is perfect for early design stage simulations and compliance modelling.

• Architectural Essentials: 3D Modeller with Simulation, Visualisation & Daylighting modules

  This package is sufficient for the vast majority of SANS 10400-XA rational assessment work; sunpath, shadow/shading and daylighting analyses; and even lets HVAC engineers do system sizing (heat loads).

• Architectural Plus: 3D Modeller with Simulation, Visualisation, Daylighting, Cost & Optimisation modules

For engineers: Minimise the ‘energy gap’ for your clients with DesignBuilder’s advanced modelling.

• Engineering Fundamentals: 3D Modeller with Simulation, Visualisation, Daylighting, & HVAC modules

• Engineering Essentials: 3D Modeller with Simulation, Visualisation, Daylighting, Cost, HVAC & LEED modules

• Engineering Plus: 3D Modeller with Simulation, Visualisation, Daylighting, Cost, HVAC, LEED, Optimisation & Scripting modules

• Engineering Pro: 3D Modeller with Simulation, Visualisation, Daylighting, Cost, HVAC, LEED, Optimisation, Scripting & CFD modules

For academic institutions: Universities worldwide use DesignBuilder for teaching since it is accessible to learn, and for research since it is so powerful. Any of the above packages may be licensed to a learning institution.

Note: DesignBuilder does not currently include South African CO₂ or cost databases.

Modules

• 3-D Modeller - The core module, our efficient 3-D building modeller.
• Visualisation - Visualisation: Stunning rendered images and site shading analysis.
• Simulation - EnergyPlus simulations for energy and comfort analyses.
• Daylighting - Reports daylight factors and illuminance using Radiance.
• HVAC - A powerful and flexible interface to EnergyPlus HVAC.
• Cost - Early stage building cost estimation.
• LEED - LEED EAp2 and ASHRAE 90.1 calculations.
• Optimisation - Multi-criteria optimisation to help meet design goals.
• Scripting - Access to the EnergyPlus Energy Management System allows you to customise the behaviour of the HVAC equipment, controls and facades with sophisticated logic and custom integration with other codes.
• CFD - Computational Fluid Dynamics calculates distribution of air properties such as velocity, temperature and pressure in and around buildings.

Note: DesignBuilder does not currently include South African CO₂ or cost databases.

See our pricing and licencing options.

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