Numerical Methods for Building Energy Technology

• employ numerical methods to solve some of the problems that typically occur in building energy technology
• explain the finite difference and control volume methods and use these methods in own computational models of transient and multidimensional problems
• use the methods taught to develop a numerical model for a problem of the diffusion type, e.g. heat conduction
• explain about how to set up a numerical model to calculate convective flows, and which problems it incurs
• explain and in own programs use Newton-Raphson’s method for non-linear problems
• set up the numerical algorithms in a programming toolbox or by writing in a computer language
• explain about typical causes of error in numerical calculation methods
• compare and critically evaluate numerical calculation results against analytical solutions
• formulate a practical problem concerning heat or mass flow in a building component or a technical system so it can be calculated using a numerical method

The course treats numerical methods for calculation of the following subjects:
– multidimensional and transient heat conduction in structures such as building components and fenestration systems with interfacial heat transmission in the form of solar radiation, thermal radiation, and convection.
– thermal processes in solar heating and other technical systems with liquid or gas flows in tubes, ducts and tanks, and with radiation heat transfer.
– mass flows such as moisture transport or air flow in building components under transient hygrothermal conditions.
An important element of the course is the students’ own construction of computational models based on numerical methods.

12601/11121/02601/02002/02003

Lectures and exercises.
Total work load equivalent to 140 hours.
The course can be taken partly by distance learning, and in other periods than E3B, but requires attendance for at least five consultations with the course instructor.