Decision methodology for the development of an expert system applied in an adaptable energy retrofit façade system for residential buildings.

A very large percentage of the European residential building stock is ageing and does not comply with current energy regulations. The need to complete short-term energy upgrading on these buildings in order to improve performance and meet current regulations poses a considerable challenge. Consistent energy methodologies are needed for mass application of suitable technologies in sensitive points such as the façade, saving time by guiding designers on use of preferred climatic design strategies for each situation and with economic feasibility. The paper presents a methodology with integrative approach between energy and economic aspects, using an inference system to overcome uncertain or unknown information found at the start of the project. Components used in the analysis are studied from a programmatic point of view (input, decision process and output). The methodology is suitable for early stages of the design process and its products enable continuation into more advanced ones. The methodology can form the basis for a software program using either its own databases or integrated energy simulation engines. This work is based on research for a European project concerning energy retrofit of residential building facades, but can be extended to other zones or end-uses having similar approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]