Hi,
I have no previous exprience of modelling beyond basic geometry in SketchUp but, for my dissertation, I'm looking to model the extent to which vernacular and contemporary passive cooling strategies can eliminate cooling loads in homes in hot humid climates and am after some software recommendations from those who know best!
My supervisor pointed me in the direction of OpenStudio and mentioned IESVE but before I dive in fully on either I thought I'd seek additional guidance.
Rather than designing HVAC systems themselves I'm more interested in being able to model the effects of natural ventilation through voids and other CFD stuff like solar chimneys and wind catchers in relation to specific climate data from a site, solar gains and the influence of different types of fenestration, and the impact of the construction of the building envelope in terms of thermal mass.
Any software that is fairly accessible to novices and that would facilitate the construction of some fairly basic geometry and the running of these types of simulations would be perfect. I have begun investigating both OpenStudio and IESVE (trial version) but am struggling to find clear guidance regarding these specific objectives.
Many thanks in advance for any advice you might have!
