Question-and-Answer Resource for the Building Energy Modeling Community
 | 1 | initial version |
OpenStudio does not store any of the energy modeling information in the SketchUp file itself, but rather uses SketchUp as a visualization tool. Modifications made to the energy model (including the energy model geometry) are stored in a separate file. The Legacy OpenStudio SketchUp plugin stored this model information in a .IDF file (the EnergyPlus input file format). The current OpenStudio SketchUp plugin uses .OSM files (the OpenStudio input file format). The plugin has its own save, save-as, open and open buttons in the toolbar. The OpenStudio SketchUp Plugin Documentation explains how to use the plugin.
If your predecessor was using the Legacy OpenStudio SketchUp plugin, he should have IDF files of his model. You can import IDFs into the new versions of OpenStudio via the ->IDF button in the OpenStudio SketchUp plugin toolbar. However, be aware that IDF import only brings in geometry, constructions, loads, thermal zones, and schedules. This means that if your predecessor put in HVAC systems, you will need to add those back into the model via the HVAC Tab of the OpenStudio Application.
