Optimisation of building energy rehabilitation processes based on BIM-BEM interoperability: case study of prefabricated panels with 3D printing

Abstract

Currently, the rehabilitation and renovation of buildings represent significant challenges in the construction sector in Portugal. These challenges are driven by the urgent need to rehabilitate the building stock, prepare it to meet carbon neutrality targets by 2050, and reduce waste and residues in the sector. Therefore, building renovation must be approached comprehensively to improve energy performance and optimise construction and energy costs. To achieve these goals, it is crucial to define a precise approach to renovation projects, including simulations that anticipate the behaviour of buildings and adopt comprehensive design solutions to tailor specific environmental conditions. In this context, there are well-established platforms and tools developed by major professional software vendors. Nevertheless, a gap was discovered in developing optimisation solutions, which enable integrated energy performance assessment of building models and allow the optimisation of facade systems for renovation within a bidirectional framework in a platform. Consequently the tool presented in the current work generates facade panels based on energy performance simulation and optimisation results. As a result, a set of generated panel configurations, including dimensions and material alterations, comprise the system that varies along the facades, optimising the building's total energy consumption and production cost. The workflow is detailed, including inferred analyses and suggestions for future improvements