The Quick Energy Simulation Tool (eQUEST)

From Open Energy Information

The Quick Energy Simulation Tool, or eQUEST, allows users with limited simulation experience to develop 3-dimensional simulation models of a particular building design. These simulations incorporate building location, orientation, wall/roof construction, window properties, as well as HVAC systems, day-lighting and various control strategies, along with the ability to evaluate design options for any single or combination of energy conservation measure(s).



Overview

The Quick Energy Simulation Tool, or eQUEST, allows users with limited simulation experience to develop 3-dimensional simulation models of a particular building design. These simulations incorporate building location, orientation, wall/roof construction, window properties, as well as HVAC systems, day-lighting and various control strategies, along with the ability to evaluate design options for any single or combination of energy conservation measure(s).

According to the eQUEST website,"eQUEST was designed to allow you to perform detailed analysis of today’s state-of-the-art building design technologies using today’s most sophisticated building energy use simulation techniques but without requiring extensive experience in the "art" of building performance modeling." [1]

Inputs and Outputs

Inputs include: Initial input via the "wizard" is broken into "schematic design wizard" and "design development wizard". The model's complexity can begin with a simple box and single-zone to the actual design, with the ability to import inputs from AutoCAD DWG files with complex schedules and rate schedules.

Outputs include: The general outputs from eQUEST include annual energy consumption and associated costs for a particular building design. Included in the extensive output reports are: summary of inputs (schedules, building construction characteristics, summary of load components and peak loads); HVAC system characteristics (input characteristics, system size, runtimes, capacity , and air/fluid flow); and hourly reports from user-specified building components.

Highlights

eQUEST's graphical input interface with sensible default values make it easy to develop a building model, while the 2-d and 3-d geometry capability allows for easy viewing of floor or building, respectively.

Notes

As with most programs, eQUEST has some limitations, for instance, that it does not model all HVAC system types, etc.

References

  1. 1.0 1.1  "eQUEST"