6.4.0 · 6.4.0.9 Release Notes ... Modifying the method by which connection to Landmark for...

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<Virtual Environment> 6.4.0.9

Release Notes

Integrated Environmental Solutions Limited Developers of the IES <Virtual Environment>

April 2012

<VE> 6.4.0.9 Release Notes

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Release Notes

<VE> 6.4.0.9 Changes ............................................................................................................................................................ 3

<VE> 6.4.0.8 Changes ............................................................................................................................................................ 4

<VE> 6.4.0.7 Changes ............................................................................................................................................................ 8

<VE> 6.4.0.6 Changes .......................................................................................................................................................... 12

<VE> 6.4.0.5 Changes .......................................................................................................................................................... 16

<VE> 6.4.0.4 Changes .......................................................................................................................................................... 28

<VE> 6.4.0.3 Changes .......................................................................................................................................................... 29

<VE> 6.4.0.2 Changes .......................................................................................................................................................... 30

<VE> 6.4.0.1 Changes .......................................................................................................................................................... 31

<VE> 6.4.0 Changes ............................................................................................................................................................. 32


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Release Notes

<VE> 6.4.0.9 Changes

ApPro Profile name limit increased [ID-0045543]: The limit for profile names has been increased to allow names greater than 80 characters.

ApacheHVAC HVAC component and controller limits [ID- 0045543]: Limits for numbers of components and controllers expanded to more effectively and consistently support large numbers of HVAC zones. The new limits support HVAC networks of approximately the following numbers of zones (actual number of zones will range from 0 to approximately 10 fewer than stated, depending upon the number of components and controllers outside of the multiplexed portion of the network):

4,000* zones in prototype single-zone systems, such as most 01–04 configurations 6,000 zones in prototype multi-zone systems, such as most 05–09 configurations 4,000* on multi-zone DV systems, such as 09g 3,000 on multi-zone UFAD systems, such as 07f *The maximum number of single-zone systems in one ApacheHVAC file can be increased to approximately 6,000 by deleting the optional separately exhausted non-principal room component from all multiplex layers when this component is not needed. Similarly, the maximum number of zones within one ApacheHVAC file with all systems of configuration 09g could be increased to approximately 6,000 if the project had no return air plenums and these components were deleted from the systems.

HVAC networks with more than 999 layers [ID-0045733]: When running simulations linked to an ApacheHVAC network with 1,000 or more layers in a single multiplex, the error message "Each closed loop of the HVAC air system must contain at least one room," which was incorrectly triggered and prevented simulation in certain cases is no longer falsely triggered in association with multiplexes exceeding 999 layers.

VE Compliance Demand Controlled Ventilation setting not reset when enter Room Data [ID-0046426]: When the system assigned to a room is an Air Conditioned system and Demand Controlled Ventilation is applied, when querying the room again the DCV setting is not reset to "No demand controlled ventilation". Edit Group Attributes improvements [ID-0047532]: Selecting “Extract fan is remote from room?” in Edit Group Attributes no longer sets the units for "Extract flow rate" in Room Data to "ach".

No crash when view Notional Building Room Data [ID-0046677]: There is no crash when viewing the System tab of Room Data in the Notional Building.


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Release Notes


General Project Upgrade added [ID-0045831]: When a project that was last saved in a version of VE prior to 6.4.0.8 is opened the project is upgraded. A backup archive of the project is stored in the project Backups folder and if required this cab can be extracted and opened in the last version of VE the project had been saved in. Note: VE projects are not backward compatible and after the project is upgraded to VE 6.4.0.8 it cannot be opened in any previous version. Tabular Room Data: Max Sensible Gain changes mirrored to Max Power Consumption [ID-0044226]: In Tabular Room Data if you modify the Maximum Sensible Gain (either manually or via an import) then the Maximum Power Consumption value updates accordingly. Timed Setpoint profiles applied correctly via Tabular Edit [ID-0044332]: Timed setpoint profiles are now applied correctly when edited using Tabular Room Data.

ApacheSim Increased ApacheHVAC limits [ID-0045543]: The following limits have been increased: On/off controllers – Increased to 60,000. Dampers – 12,000. Fans – 18,000. Branches – 60,000. DX units – 2000. Heater battery – 12,000. Air flow specs - 60,000. Control connections - 60,000. Pre-simulation process improved when running large HVAC network [ID-0043013]: When running an Apache simulation and model includes a large ApacheHVAC multiplex the pre-simulation process is significantly improved so that simulations will take maximum a few minutes to begin rather than hours as was previously experienced on some models. Proportional only controllers take account of sensor radiant fraction [ID-0044981]: In a Proportional only controller the sensor radiant fraction is now taken account of.

ApLocate Corrected time zone for Singapore [ID-0045250]: Corrected Singapore time zone to GMT+8.

Apache Constructions Database Construction name limit increase [ID-0044830]: The construction name limit has been increased to 200 characters.


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Release Notes

ApacheHVAC Dry-bulb temperature updated from Loads Data spreadsheet [ID-0044083]: When "Assign system parameters and system sizing data" is completed for system 09, the “Dry-bulb temperature at Maximum signal” is now copied from the Loads Data spreadsheet to the controller “SC1: DOAS Heating coil controlled to maintain minimum SAT”. Advanced Heating Coils loads included in System Loads Reports [ID-0045780]: Heating Coil Loads for Advanced Heating Coils are now reported in the System Sizing Loads Report under the following sections:

SYSTEM SIZING system loads > AHU Heating coil

SYSTEM SIZING system loads > Rooms served by system (components)

SYSTEM SIZING room loads > Room data summaries Also, duplicate information for simple heating coils has been removed. Loads data spreadsheet updated [ID-0045648]: The Loads Data spreadsheet has been updated so that the Heating and Cooling Load tabs reference ZONE rather than system SAT values for systems that have zone-level coils (all re-heat coils in Sys 05, 06, 07, 08; all coils in Sys 01, 02, 03, 04, 09). Prototype system minor fixes [ID-0045645]: The following minor fixes have been made to the prototype systems:

System 05b: Controller “MC11: Demand-controlled ventilation (DCV) per zone CO2 levels - stage 1 - force VAV box to open more” now has ON-OFF control set to "HVAC PP1 - Plant (Timeswitch: Exhaust & Transfer Airflow)"

Systems 07e and 07f: AND connections for control of de-stratification in both UFAD Systems point to recirc airflow control.

System 09a: Increased default oversizing factors for FCU Heating and Cooling coils. M3: FCU heating coil oversizing factor raised to 2.0.

Systems 03 and 04 (all variants): Revised default Flow Rate in EA controller from 100 cfm to 0 cfm (standard system and PRM Baseline 03 and 04).

System 03 (all, incl. PRM): Reference Name in S2: Supply Fan revised to read, “S2: SA Fan -- illustrative inputs for PRM baseline fan power”

System 07c: Description in multiplex for Single-Fan dual-duct system corrected. Prototype_Systems_VE-630.asp removed from System_prototypes_plus data model [ID-0045379]: The redundant HVAC file Prototype_Systems_VE-630.asp has been removed from the System_prototypes_plus and System_prototypes_only data models. Dependent time switches no longer moved after query dialog is OK'ed [ID-0044748]: The dependent time switches have stopped being moved to the grid origin after the query dialog is OK'ed. The connection is therefore not destroyed. Sensor radiant fractions written to 3 d.p. in .con file [ID-0045069]: Sensor radiant fractions for both on/off and proportional controllers are written to the .con file to 3 decimal places.

ASHRAE 90.1 App. G - PRM Note added to the System Parameters dialog regarding multiple single-zone systems [ID-0045722]: The following text has been added to the Systems Parameters dialog:

Multiple single-zone systems: Except where identical for all systems in a multiplex, parameters on in this dialog should be entered in the zone-level rows of the Loads Data spreadsheet Sys 3,4 tab.


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Release Notes

SYS Plant profile has correct relationship to System Schedules start-up and after-hours operation [ID-0045325]: Previously, the software would have counted temperatures significantly below the daytime (occupied hours) heating setpoint within the start-up period as unmet load hours; however, now the unoccupied setpoint is used to determine unmet load hours during both unoccupied hours and the start-up & after-hours operational periods. The same can be said with respect to the cooling setpoint. So long as the average temperatures during start-up & after-hours operational periods are within the set control tolerance (e.g., 2°F) of the unoccupied heating and cooling setpoints, they are not counted as unmet load hours. System Schedules improvements [ID-0045326] The System Schedules dialog is improved so that profiles area created with correct timing in relationship to start-up and after hours operating periods. When Night/Unoccupied Hours strategy selected includes “OA off” the Air-side Economizer damper minimum OA setting and operation of all exhaust fans is in effect only during the Opening Hours and not during start-up or after hours operating periods. Parking garage Fan Control is input on the Advanced Options dialog that can be accessed via the “Configure schedules for day types and garage fans” button, the default State is taken as “On/Off according to plant schedule”. System Schedules units reflect the unit mode selected [ID-0031758] Modifications have been made to allow the temperature setpoints in both the System Schedules and Advanced System Schedules dialogs to be specified in the active units that the VE is running in, rather than always being in IP. Duplicate fans removed from PRM Systems [ID-0045721]: PRM Baseline systems 09, 10, 11 and Standard systems 09a – 09k, inclusive, have had the duplicate return air fans removed.

VE Compliance SBEM & EPCgen v4.1.d integrated [ID-]: VE Compliance (ApacheSim DSM and SBEM) is updated to include EPCgen v4.1.d and VE-SBEM uses SBEM v4.1.d.0. Full details of the changes included in this version of SBEM can be found on the BRE NCM website. Please note this includes changes to the way EPC XML is generated and lodged for both SBEM and ApacheSim DSM, guidance from BRE is copied below:

1. Modifying the method by which connection to Landmark for verification of energy assessors before the generation of XML files. 2. As a consequence of the above point, activation codes will no longer be needed, i.e., energy assessors will no longer need to obtain activation codes from EPCgen.net to input them into the software in order to be able to generate XML files. IMPORTANT: Energy Assessors now MUST input their details (Name, Address, Qualifications, Trading name, etc.) correctly in the interface and not just their Assessor Number. The new verification system will not overwrite these details with information from the Register and if they are not exactly as they appear in the register, XML files will fail at lodgement stage.

Energy Assessors will be able to lodge EPCs generated using iSBEM_v4.1.c until 16th January 2012 (5pm). After this date this version will be deprecated and XML files will only be generated with iSBEM_v4.1.d or other approved software tools using the new EPCgen_v4.1.d module included in this release.

NCM Activities Database updated [ID-]: The NCM Activities templates have been updated in line with the latest version of the NCM Activities Database provided by BRE. The new database includes a number of changes to the templates including heating and cooling setpoints, DHW rates and profiles. Users are advised to review inputs after upgrading models to be aware of potential results changes that may occur as a result of these changes. Further information on the updated database is available from BRE and all queries should be directed via the Feedback page.

http://www.ncm.bre.co.uk/latest.jsp

http://www.ncm.bre.co.uk/feedback.jsp?id=6


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Release Notes

CHP Energy Consumption Reporting improved [ID-0045830]: CHP system energy consumption is changed for Compliance purposes so that consumption is distributed across energy end uses rather than entirely being reported under “Heating Energy”. External perimeter length written to SBEM input file corrected [ID-0045576]: The external perimeter length written to the SBEM input file is corrected for surfaces that have both internal and external areas. Default SBEM Psi Values corrected [ID-0044586]: The default Psi now correspond to the values in Table 8 of the NCM Modelling Guide. Invalid shading file does not stop Compliance simulations [ID-0044805]: When the simulation option "use existing shading file for benchmark buildings?" is ticked and the Notional or Reference shading file is flagged as invalid, clicking the proceed anyway option does not stop the simulation after the Actual Building has completed. BRUKL certificate corrections [ID-0044955]: When a room has a thermal template assigned with NCM Room Type set to "Internal void or warm roof" then running a Compliance simulation (ApacheSim or SBEM) results in the correct U-values being reported on the BRUKL in the Criterion 2 section. Apache systems tab improvements [ID-0044586]: Tabs are now displayed correctly in the Apache system dialog when switching to a system that uses district heating. Room Data Demand Control Ventilation option improvements [ID-0045059]: When a room is served by the NCM System type "Chilled ceilings or passive chilled beams and displacement ventilation" the DCV options "Demand Control based on Occupancy density" and "Demand control based on gas sensors" are available on the System tab of Room Data whether the System input Template check box is ticked or not. Mechanical Supply checkbox state retained when change between VE Compliance and Apache [ID-0043958]:- When the system assigned to a room is of NCM type Split or multi-split system or Single room cooling system the Mechanical Supply checkbox on the System tab of Room Data will remain ticked if change from VE Compliance to Apache and back.

Vista Vista variables clarified when PRM Fuel Codes in use [ID-0044735]:- When the “Apply PRM energy use convention” option is selected in Fuels Data dialog (e.g. automatically after import Prototype ApacheHVAC systems) the variables in Vista reflect this;

System electricity is renamed to system electricity (misc) as this represents HVAC system electrical energy uses that cannot be assigned a fuel code e.g. heat rejection fans and pumps.

Total electricity is renamed Total electricity (misc), this is the total of all consumptions assigned the electricity fuel.

New variables added are PRM system electricity, PRM system fossil fuels and PRM system other fuels to allow total Energy uses by fuel in the PRM model to be easily extracted.

Revit Link Updates to gbXML import from Autodesk Revit 2012 [ID-0044409]:- Updates to gbXML import from Autodesk Revit;

When gbXML from Revit MEP contains rooms with internal gains (defined in Revit model) the import will not be prevented by VE.

When gbXML is imported from Revit MEP 2012 the Set Model Properties dialog is not displayed. Note: Model Properties can be applied in Revit MEP prior to export from Revit, when gbXML from Revit Architecture is imported the Set Model Properties dialog is still displayed.


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Release Notes


General SunCast shading file validation improved [ID-0042076]: The SunCast shading file format is updated to include geometry data so that when running dynamic simulations linked to Suncast the shading file validation can be done prior to simulation and no warning or error messages are displayed when the shading file is valid. Note: If a model is opened in a version of VE earlier than 6.4.0.7 then it will be necessary to regenerate the shading file in that version prior to running a simulation.

ShowMe ShowMe crash prevented [ID-0043213]: A runtime error was prevented when you attempt to generate a report in ShowMe.

ModelIT Model Check Report improvements [ID-0040614]: When two rooms are adjacent and the shared surface has a 100% hole, the ModelIT Check Report no longer flags up the adjacency as an unmatched adjacency Zero area. ModelIT key-in improvements [ID-0042880]: No longer receive an error when changing application after using the ModelIT key-in functions. Geometry name improvements [ID-0042865]: When creating geometry, if you leave the zone name input blank the new zones are automatically named "zone 1", "zone 2" etc and the Room ID "ZN1_0000", "ZN2_0000" etc.

SunCast Crash prevented when switching views [ID-0043490]: Prevented crash when switching views while a SunCast shading calculation is running.

Apache View Tabular Room Data: Installed Power Density edit enabled [ID-0043095]: When the Input Mode is set to Lux (not from template), the Installed Power Density value is editable. Tabular Room Data: Setpoints "From Template" correctly applied [ID-0042608]: If you have selected multiple rooms for edit using Tabular Room Data and those rooms are using differing thermal templates, Heating Setpoints and Cooling Setpoints, then the modifications are now applied in the correct way.


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Release Notes

ApacheSim ApacheSim error prevented when cooling tower is running at full capacity and the tower entering water temperature approaches its lower limit [ID-0043898]: When the cooling tower cannot meet its imposed load but can still provide some cooling (cooling tower is under-capacity) and when tower entering water temperature approaches its lower limit, it can come too close to the lower limit. This led to an Apache error that has now been resolved so that simulations can be completed.

ApacheHVAC Boiler Loads corrected for sequenced heating equipment on Hot Water Loop [ID-0044084]: The boiler loads displayed in Vista and used to determine boiler energy consumption are correctly calculated when multiple heat sources are sequenced on a Hot Water Loop. This affects only models built in 6.4.0.5 and 6.4.0.6. DX Cooling coils now sized properly for systems in which the load on a single DX coil exceeds 100 kW: The autosizing now uses an effectively unlimited capacity during the sizing run so as to prevent inappropriate constraint the DX Cooling coil size for heavily loaded systems. Prototype Systems 5 and 7 corrected when no Demand Controlled Ventilation is applied [ID-0043896]: MC11 controller stage 1 of the two-stage Demand-Controlled Ventilation (DCV) used in System configurations 05 and 07 is now set to zero when DCV is disabled via the System Parameters dialog (global setting) or at the zone level in the Loads Data spreadsheet. For variants of system types 05 and 07 that include the MC11 controller (prototype system 05b IDDE-DCV, or any 05 or 07 system to which the user has added MC11), the autosizing routine will now apply CO-2 driven modulation of the VAV box flow rate only to the layers/zones for DCV is included. Autosizing for 2-stage electric reheat coils in Prototype System 6 & 8 is improved [ID-0043890]: The autosizing calculation in the Loads Data spreadsheet now sets controller MC7 leaving DBT = controller MC8 DBT – 20 F. De-rating the leaving temperature of the first coil to 20 F (default; can be adjusted by the user) below the user-specified reheat LAT, which is applied without adjustment to the second coil, provides two-stage operation mimic actual equipment in terms of thermal comfort and improved operational stability relative to a single on/off electric resistance coil.

Vista Right click Copy option available in IES report viewer [ID-0043393]: When viewing a report in the IES Report viewer it is possible to select a portion of the report and right click to Copy it.

ASHRAE 90.1 App. G - PRM PRM Report uses correct .aps file [ID-0043866]: Multiple PRM simulations can be completed and saved using different file names. When the generate report action is clicked a dialog will ask which set of results you wish to generate the report for. The results will then be extracted from the correct .aps file. PRM report now reports CHP heat output correctly [ID-0042828]: In the BPRM report the Combined Heat and Power Rated Capacity now reports heat output rather than the fraction of rated heat output.

VE Compliance SBEM v4.1.c update 02 [ID-0043219]: The latest version of SBEM version 4.1.c.4 is included in VE Compliance. Further details of this update are available from the BRE NCM website www.ncm.bre.co.uk


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Release Notes

Room Group selection improvements [ID-0043187]: Selection of Room Groups through the room browser is now significantly faster when in VE Compliance. Improvements made when removing an Apache System [ID-0043833]: A warning is displayed when attempt to delete an Apache System if it is still assigned in either a room or a thermal template. Auxiliary Energy Equation 10 modified [ID-0043526]: In light of an update from the NCM Modelling Guide the Auxiliary Energy Equation 10 is modified. Previously it was calculated as FPS3 = (0.2 * SCR) * SFPcentral this is now FPS3 = max((0.2 * SCR), FARmax) * SFPcentral Demand Controlled Ventilation can be applied when system NCM Type is Central Heating using Air Distribution [ID-0043354]: The Mechanical Demand Controlled Ventilation options are available on the System tab of Room Data when the system serving the room is Central Heating using Air Distribution. Demand Control Ventilation options available for Air Conditioned systems [ID-0043000]: When a room is served by one of the NCM System types with Air Conditioning (and the Mechanical Supply checkbox is hidden) the Demand Control Ventilation options "Demand Control based on Occupancy density" and "Demand control based on gas sensors" are available on the System tab of Room Data. Note: to apply DCV via Edit Group Attributes the Mechanical Supply checkbox must also be ticked on the Edit Group dialog to display these options. Mechanical Supply checkbox state retained when change between VE Compliance and Apache [ID-0043457]: When the system assigned to a room is of NCM type Fan Coil Systems or Indoor Packaged Cabinet (VAV) the Mechanical Supply checkbox on the System tab of Room Data will remain ticked if change from VE Compliance to Apache and back. ApacheSim methods Air Permeability retained when change Regulations [ID-0043897]: The Air Permeability value set on the Building Details tab of Building and System Data (ApacheSim methods) is retained when change Regulations. Criterion 3 report accounts for reporting interval [ID-0043735]: In the Criterion 3 report the Solar Gain Limit now takes account of the reporting interval. Criterion 3 Solar Gain variables added to 'Export Room Data' file [ID-0043685]: The Criterion 3 Solar Gain Total and Criterion 3 Solar Gain Benchmark values are added to the exported room data. Section 6 ApacheSim BRUKL for Portable Modular Building displays correct U-value limits [ID-0043227]: A Section 6 2010 BRUKL generated by ApacheSim for a building defined as Portable/Modular, Planned Time of Use More than 2 Years and Date of Manufacture After 1 October displays the correct limiting U-values in Section 2 of the BRUKL. SBEM Door construction assignment improvements [ID-0042106]: When the door type is set as "Curtain wall" or "Wall or roof element" then the LENGTH keyword is written out to the .inp file. BRUKL displays correct u-values when project contains conflicting Construction IDs [ID-0001181 & 0042521]: When a project contains multiple Constructions in the constructions database with the same ID ApacheSim method BRUKL reports will display the correct u-values for all elements in the Criterion 2 table and the failing Constructions warning will only be displayed where applicable.

Radiance Illuminance - Working Plane calculation crash prevented [ID-0043562]: A crash is prevented when trying to abort an Illuminance - Working Plane calculation while the simulation progress bar shows "pre-sim complete".


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Release Notes

Navigator for BREEAM® BREEAM Day lighting HEA 1 Report clarifications [ID-0043702]: The Daylighting HEA 1 Report has been amended to clarify the displayed results. Column headers in the Simulated daylight table now refer to AOI to represent the result is not for the entire space and target DF reflects that the benchmark criteria to be met for different credits can vary. DF and AOI (Area of Interest) corrected for Retail and Education (tertiary). Rainwater/greywater consumption capped at the max toilet water usage [ID-0043822]: Rainwater and greywater can only be applied to toilet & urinal water consumption. Rainwater/greywater consumption is capped at the max toilet water usage. Note that if rainwater and greywater are both enabled, then greywater shall have priority, with 100% greywater allocated to flushing. The remainder is then serviced by rainwater. This is reflected in the greywater/rainwater consumption figures (where greywater usage 100% of generated and rainwater may be less than 100%). BREEAM Navigator HEA 8 changes [ID-0043672 & 0043673]: The following prompts are added to the Navigator for BREEAM and they are a prerequisite to generating the Indoor Air Quality HEA8 report:

Intakes / exhausts are > 10m apart

Intakes / exhausts are > 20m from pollution

Windows are > 20m from pollution When these criteria are met a credit is awarded (even in the scenario where no rooms are included in the analysis). BREEAM Indoor Air Quality HEA 8 [ID-0043674]: The Indoor Air Quality HEA 8 calculation has been corrected so that the Target Fresh Air Rate for Education 5 l/s (1350 PPM CO2) is used and report is updated to reflect this. HEA 8 calculation change [ID-0043632]: Indoor Air Quality thresholds now adjusted to reflected metabolic rates. BREEAM HEA10 report improvements [ID-0043738]: The temperature assessment table shows "-" for air-conditioned rooms in the "Tests: Winter" and "Tests: Summer" columns. The PMV assessment table shows "-" for naturally and mechanically ventilated rooms in the "Tests: PMV +/- 0.5" column. Also, when no spaces are selected then no credit is awarded.


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Release Notes


General Room query button improvements [ID-0042334]: The Room Query button is enabled when initially switching into a supported module with a single room selected or when selecting a room group from the browser that contains a single room.

VE-Gaia Climate Energy Index "9 - 5 hours of use" results reported correctly [ID-0041992]: The Climate Energy Index report is corrected so that the value reported for "9-5 hours use" is correctly calculated taking into account only the energy use between the hours 9 - 5. LEED USA Day Lighting Credit threshold changed to 10fc [ID-0042213]: The LEED USA Navigator and Toolkit are updated so that Day Lighting EQ8.1 is assessed against a threshold of 10fc (108 Lux) when Rating system is version 3. The LEED Day Lighting report is corrected to show 21 September as Simulation date (previously displayed the date the report was generated).

ModelIT Connect spaces improvements [ID-0039866]: Connect Spaces is now correctly exited if you move down a level (e.g. by double-clicking a room) or if you switch tools.

Apache Profiles Database ApPro is improved to avoid multiple copies of profile with same ID [ID-0042148]: When project contains multiple .pdb or .pro files these are not merged into Profiles Database so project does not contain multiple duplicate profiles.

Apache View Room ID is unchanged when edit Room Name in Room Data [ID-0039127]: When a Room Name is edited on the General tab of Room Data the Room ID is unchanged. Tabular Room Data import improvements [ID-0042260]: Templates are now recognised on import if the name has leading/trailing spaces. "From Template" option added to Air Exchange "Temperature Profile" dropdown [ID-0042270]: "From Template" option has been added to the dropdown for Air Exchange "Temperature Profile" column in Tabular Room Data. This will be the first item in the drop-list and when "From Template" is active, the cell text will be shown in the "From Template" colour (blue by default).

SunCast shading file validation improved [ID-0042076]: The validation check on the Suncast shading file is improved so that the erroneous error “Building shading file is out of date” is not displayed when the shading file has been calculated on the latest version of the building geometry. There may still be occasions where this error occurs after the shading file has been re-calculated for latest geometry, this is usually due to errors in the geometry. IES is working on a full robust solution for this but in the meantime users are advised to check geometry in ModelIT (Settings menu >> ModelIT, tick Intersections, Zones and Surfaces then click the


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Release Notes

Check button) and correct any errors before re-running the SunCast calculation.

ApacheHVAC Loads data spreadsheet updated to include SAT resets for systems 6, 8 and 9 [ID-0042113]: The Loads Data spreadsheet is updated so that for systems 6, 8 and 9 the MC1 and MC2 control Dry-bulb Temp at min signal includes Cooling Coil SAT reset as defined via the System Parameters action. MC8 sizing code removed for systems 03 and 04 [ID-0042051]: The obsolete MC8 sizing code in Systems 03 and 04 has been removed. First "Save" after "Save As" performs correctly [ID-0042052]: After importing and saving a prototype system selecting the "Save" toolbar button or "Save HVAC System" from the ApHVAC menu will not display the "Save As" dialog again. Time Switch dialog retains changes when closed by Enter key [ID-0039471]: Edits made on the Time Switch dialog are retained when user exits dialog via Ok button or using Enter key on keyboard. Default values for Slope and Orientation in Room Unit controllers updated [ID-0041879]: The default values updated as follows for each occurrence (regardless of association with the On/Off setpoint control, Proportional Flow control, or Proportional Temperature control): Orientation: 180 degrees (south) Slope: 45 degrees (typical for mid-latitude locations on northern continents) Default values for all three heat pumps AAHP, ASHP, and AWHP updated [ID-0041808]: For the three heat pumps, Air to Air Heat Pump, Air Source Heat Pump and Air to Water Heat Pump: Changed the default value for Min Source Temp to -10 C (14 F) and Source Temp to 8.333 C (47 F). For ASHP and AWHP the default value for Output has been changed to 132 kW (450.40 kBtu/h). No error when import EWC Chiller [ID-0041838]: When an EWC Chiller is imported without first defining a Condenser Water loop then a Condenser Water Loop is automatically added to the Chilled Water Loop rather than display an error and block the import of the chiller. Shading surfaces removed from Rooms dropdowns [ID-0041458, 0041456 & 0031099]: The select Rooms dropdowns in Create/Edit Multiplex, Assign Room ID’s and the HVAC Wizard list only rooms present in the model and do not display Shading surfaces (or blank entries).

Vista/VistaPro Tariff Analysis improved to work with multi-language OS [ID-0042307]: When running on a non-English machine Tariff Analysis operates in UK regional mode so the full stop is used to denote a decimal separator.

PRM Custom Room Group names can be created using the reserved names "SPACE:" and "BLDG:" [ID-0041785]: Custom Room Group names can be created using the reserved names "SPACE:" and "BLDG:" in the Prototype 90.1 Grouping Schemes. The identifier "(custom)" will be added to the new Room Group. Baseline model not lost when close VE while editing Baseline building [ID-0042588]: If the VE is shut down while making edits to the Baseline building model, when the project is opened again the Baseline model still exists and can be selected for further editing or analysis. No error when perform Room Sizing on system network including sized Parking Garage Fan [ID-0041823]: When perform the Room Sizing steps on a network which contains an autosized Parking Garage Fan the warning error "Failed to obtain loads sheet information" is not displayed.


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Release Notes

PRM Proposed and Baseline models updated when make edits [ID-0042037]: Improvements are made so that Proposed and Baseline models are updated appropriately when edits are made to the project and these changes are reflected in subsequent simulation results without requirement to regenerate the models. In particular; 1. Edits made to Thermal Templates in Building Template Manager will filter through to assigned rooms in the Proposed and Baseline models (all variants) 2. Edits made to the Proposed model in Room Data or Edit Group Attributes (ASHRAE 90.1 App. G - PRM application) are applied only to the Proposed building. 3. Edits made to the Baseline model in Room Data or Edit Group Attributes (ASHRAE 90.1 App. G - PRM application) are applied to the Baseline building (and all variants). Note: in the case where any changes are not reflected in the Proposed or Baseline models, these can be refreshed by running the Room Loads Calculation from the Sizing Runs section of the Navigator.

VE Compliance Efficiency improved when editing large projects [ID-0042038]: When editing large projects using Room Data the VE refresh time is improved after changes are applied. BER & TER adjustment factors now incorporated in Vista results [ID-0042236]: NCM guidance allows for downward adjustment to the BER and TER for electric power factor and (except in Scotland) a factor for lighting monitoring. These adjustments were previously applied to the BER and TER values in a post-processing step after simulation. They are now applied during simulation, and are therefore evident in Vista energy and CO2 results and in breakdowns presented on the BRUKL document Technical Data Sheet (Energy Consumption by End Use and Energy & CO2 Emissions Summary tables). ApacheSim BRUKL Energy & CO2 Emissions Summary section corrected [ID-0041561]: A BRUKL report generated using the ApacheSim method reports the correct Heating + Cooling Demand (MJ/m

2) for the whole building.

ApacheSim BRUKL does not show room level Heat Recovery [ID-0038079]: A BRUKL document generated by

ApacheSim does not display room level Heat Recovery where this has been previously defined with method set to SBEM. Auxiliary Energy calculation considers Mechanical Supply checkbox status [ID-0042096]: The auxiliary energy calculation considers the presence of Mechanical Supply as defined on the System tab of Room Data. When this is unticked any SFP associated with Mechanical Supply is ignored. Auxiliary energy calculated correctly for Central Heating using Air Distribution system [ID-0042693]: When NCM System type Central Heating using Air Distribution is selected from NCM System Wizard the Auxiliary Energy is calculated correctly for Actual and Notional Building taking into account peak heating load (but ignoring peak cooling load). When Actual Building uses this system type the corresponding Notional room has a room level Mechanical Supply ticked and the terminal SFP set to 0.5 W/(l/s). Heat Recovery applied when NCM System type is "Central Heating using Air Distribution" [ID-0042290]: When the NCM System type is "Central Heating using Air Distribution" any Heat Recovery defined in the Ventilation tab of the NCM System Wizard will be used during the simulation. EPCgen.net activation code retained when enter VE Compliance [ID-0042713]: The Previously entered Part L2 Assessor Number and EPCgen.net activation code are retained in Building and System Data when user enters VE Compliance.


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Release Notes

Modification to treatment of "Clause 6.1.9 nat vent BER reduction factor” [ID-0042690 & 0042684]: The parameter 'Clause 6.1.9 nat vent BER reduction factor' applicable to Scottish NCM analyses is now applied only to the space heating and auxiliary energy components of BER, and is thus more directly related to the factor referred to in Clause 6.1.9. The text label for this parameter has been changed to emphasize that it applies only to energy consumption for natural ventilation systems. Its default value has been changed to zero and it is now displayed to 4 decimal places.

FlucsDL/Pro FluscDL/Pro improved when room names are changed after FluscDL/Pro simulation [ID-0042068]: If after a FlucsDL/Pro calculation has been performed the user then edits room names, on returning to Flucs a message is displayed to give the user the option to retain or discard the results associated with each room ID.


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Release Notes


General Warning when running below minimum screen resolution [ID-0041122]: VE Application warns user if VE is running below minimum screen resolution which is 1152 x 864. VE is improved to support all DPI settings as long as the resulting resolution meets the minimum specification, in cases where dialogs may not be fully displayed on screen this message will appear when VE is launched. Model Browser improved for selection of multiple rooms [ID-0040884]: The Model Browser works correctly when multiple rooms are selected using 'Shift' & 'Ctrl' key modifiers. Selected rooms highlighted in Model Browser [ID-0024476]: Model browser shows blue background colour for selected rooms even after focus is taken away from the browser. Duplicate Print menu option removed [ID-0032243]: The 'Print' action appears only in the 'File' menu, accessible from all VE Applications. ASHRAE Loads help button opens user guide [ID-0037795]: The help button on ASHRAE Loads dialog launches the ASHRAE Loads user guide. ShowMe does not crash VE [ID-0040994]: The ShowMe Report Generator tool generates the report without crashing VE. In cases where this crash occurs when try to generate a report user is advised to rebuild adjacencies in the project (select project, type “rebuild” into the ModelIT key-in field then press enter key).

Licensing Licence control shows correct usage for Section 6 [ID-0040047]: Section 6 usage is now reported correctly under Licence Control.

Building Template Manager Heating and Cooling Zones removed [ID-0006765]: The redundant Heating and Cooling zones options are removed from the Room Conditions tab of Room Data, Edit Group Attributes and BTM.

ModelIT 'Divide space' tool improvements [ID-0040881]: The 'Divide space' tool is improved to divide more complex geometry. Surface areas calculated correctly [ID-0041237]: Corrected the rare issue where some rooms floor areas were being calculated wrong after rebuilding adjacencies and assigning constructions. Merge/Subtract rooms is more robust [ID-0040532]: The Merge and Subtract tools are improved so that VE does not crash after modifying geometry. Drag face tool improvements [ID-0039708]: Prevents problems in dragging a body's face if the face has duplicate vertices (e.g. after cutting along a slope with a cutting plane passing through an edge).


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Release Notes

Undo is disabled while adding partitions [ID-0040837]: While using the Draw Partition tool it is not possible to use the Undo command until the partition is complete or cancelled. Arc tool can be used when drawing partitions [ID-0039821]: When using the Draw Partition tool to split up a room the Arc drawing tool can be used without any errors. Tidy operation does not invalidate room browser list [ID-0040510]: The 'tidy' operation does not move the room down the list below the shading objects. Rooms created using Construct-DXF are placed in valid Room Group [ID-0039363]: Rooms created using Construct-DXF are automatically added to the Ground Floor group in the default Floors grouping scheme. Model Settings Report shows correct location [ID-0032574]: The modelit.log file (generated via Settings >> Model menu option) shows the correct Latitude and Longitude for the model. Storey dropdown updated when modify model geometry [ID-0037863]: The storey drop-down is updated when room height or base is edited using different edit tools.

Component Modeller Close Perimeter button available when drawing Arc [ID-0036609]: The 'Close Perimeter' button gets active after drawing two geometry lines using the arc tool.

ApLocate Daylight Saving Time corrected [ID-0041480]: The Daylight Saving Time month range is corrected for some locations, to apply correct DST month range automatically use the ApLocate Set Location tool. Weather Data Wizard improved for PRM use [ID-0040589]: The Weather Data Wizard is improved so that when the v3.0 for PRM option on the ASHRAE Fundamentals Design Weather Data input is selected the Percentile for Heating loads weather is set to 99.6% and the percentile for Cooling loads weather is set to 1.0%. Weather Data Wizard shows previously acquired values when entering ApLocate [ID-0040815]: The initial values shown for the heating and cooling percentiles match the values previously acquired.

SunCast Hotkeys modified [ID-0031491]: 'Edit' menu hotkeys are updated so that “C” is used only once. Alt+E+C triggers Copy Alt+E+E triggers Clear Alt+E+R triggers Colours

Constructions Database Local Shading Device tab order corrected [ID-0040249]: Tab order is improved on Local Shading Device dialog so that it is possible to tab through all the inputs for the selected Device. Duplicate Materials removed [ID-0040612]: The System Materials list is updated to remove duplicate materials.


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Release Notes

Apache View Air Exchanges Adjacent Condition Temperature Profile can be edited in Room Data [ID-0041464]: Room Data can be used to edit the Temperature Profile of an Air Exchange when Adjacent Condition is set to "Temperature from profile". Mechanical Supply option improved in Apache view [ID-0040120]: The "Is there a mechanical supply in the room" checkbox is only displayed when a valid system type is selected and is never ticked on automatically. Mechanical Exhaust Flow rate value is stored [ID-0041301]: The value entered for Mechanical Exhaust flow rate on the System tab of room data is correctly stored when project units are set to US IP. Edit Group Attributes improved when editing Internal Gains [ID-0040089]: The Edit Group Attributes dialog is improved so that each variable on the Internal Gains tab can be edited independently. Plant profile group added to Edit Group Attributes [ID-0040209]: Plant profile can be edited using Edit Group Attributes. On the Room Conditions tab the profile can be set to the heating/cooling profile or set independently. Note: If the heating or cooling option is selected, the plant profile is only explicitly set if the associated profile has been set in the EGA, if not, the existing profile is retained. NCM Dimming controls updated through Edit group attributes are applied to Real Building [ID-0033314]: NCM dimming controls for the real building are updated when applied through the Edit Group Attributes dialog. Apache Systems selects new system [ID-0013508]: When a new system is added to the Apache Systems dialog it is selected automatically for editing. NCM System Wizard more consistent when change system type [ID-0034449]: NCM System Wizard is improved so that changing between different system types (including “not set”) results in consistent AEV, SCoP and SSEER being calculated based on inputs on each tab. When viewing Room Grouping Scheme individual rooms can be selected from rooms browser [ID-0040820]: Query button is active when selecting an individual room from rooms browser when viewing the room grouping schemes. Export Room Data corrected in IP units [ID-0040914]: When project units are set to US IP, Export Room Data reports correct values in Btu/h for Internal Gains of type “Miscellaneous”. Renewables dialog - update to accepted ranges [ID-0037741]: The following changes have been made:

PV module nominal efficiency accepts data ranging from 0-1

Temperature coefficient for module efficiency accepts data ranging from 0-0.1 CHP Generator Fuel list expanded [ID-0029683]: The CHP Generator Fuel Type options includes the Miscellaneous fuels.

Apache Simulation Maximum number of fans allowed in an HVAC network increased [ID-0041428]: Increased Apache limit on the number of HVAC fans from 1600 to 3000. Estimated results file size accuracy improved [ID-0036251]: The accuracy of the estimated results file size displayed on the Apache simulation settings dialog is improved to be within around 10% of the actual .aps file size. Simulation can be run when ApacheHVAC network contains steam humidifier controlling relative humidity [ID-0040628]: When a simulation is run on a network containing a steam humidifier controlling relative humidity the erroneous error message "error Dewpoint controller is not allowed for DX cooling" is no longer displayed.


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Release Notes

ApacheHVAC S Button only used to edit Prototype systems [ID-0035512]: The Import Prototype System button is a new feature in VE 6.4.0.5 that provides access to a library of pre-defined prototype systems in place of similar functions of the previous "S" button. As of VE 6.4.0.5, the "S" button is used only to enter the system edit mode for selecting, moving, and copying prototype systems and for editing the system name. Right click to exit ‘S’ mode [ID- 0033023]: Simply right clicking the mouse will exit ‘S’ mode. Add predefined DX and AAHP units when upgrading a PRM baseline system [ID-0041266]: When PRM Baseline network is upgraded the DX and AAHP units are added automatically. Heat Pump update [ID-0041397]: As part of an overhaul of the interfacing of heat pumps in ApacheHVAC, Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) present in the previous version of this system have been updated. Heat pumps are no longer displayed in the air network. They are replaced in the network by simple ducts. Validation of new controller position improved [ID-0041058]: In the scenario where a Multiplex overlaps the origin and a new controller is placed outside the Multiplex the error “Controller position is invalid with respect to the existing multiplexes” is not displayed and the new controller is created. Cooling coil property dialog range checking updated [ID-0039358]: New sizing status message is displayed when cooling capacity is greater than 50000kW (or 170607 kBtu/h in IP). Advanced Cooling coil Over-sizing factor improvements [ID-0040019]: The Over-sizing factor range check has been updated to accept values between 1 and 5. Pressing enter will also save any changes. Heating Coil - manually edited autosized Heating capacity value marked black [ID-0041313]: After running an ASHRAE loads calculation the Heating capacity value and its autosize indicator are both green. If you manually edit this value they will both return to black. Dedicated Waterside Economizer can use backup chilled water loop Cooling Tower and pump parameters [ID-0037865]: The option is added to the Dedicated Waterside Economizer dialog to "use backup chilled water loop cooling tower and pump parameters". When ticked the DWSE parameters are copied from the backup chilled water loop. Note: this option is only available where backup chilled water loop contains a condenser water loop with Cooling Tower heat rejection device. Dedicated Waterside Economizer input range modified [ID-0041062]: The Dedicated Waterside Economizer dialog accepts any value input for Cooling coil design water Delta-T from 0.55 to 40K. Part load data for boilers, chillers and fans are now sorted by HVAC [ID-0017030]: Part load curves for fans, boilers and chillers are ordered when the dialog is closed. Fans are ordered by flow, chillers and boilers by load. Timed Hot Water supply temperature setpoint dropdown display improved [ID-0038914]: The Hot Water Loop dialog “Timed hot water supply temperature setpoint” dropdown displays full profile names with truncation. Hot Water Boiler Curve can be edited [ID-0039217]: All Hot Water Boiler curve values can be edited. Datum Temperature is stored correctly [ID-0038242]: The curve data Datum Temperature, Tdatum, specified by user is stored correctly for Electric Water Cooled Chiller, Electric Air Cooled Chiller or DX Cooling. DX Cooling dialog highlights edited Curve data [ID-0037484]: The DX Cooling dialog highlights Curve data that has been modified by the user by appending the text "(edited)" to the end of the Curve name. Direct Acting Heater settings retained [ID-0040645]: The Direct Acting Heater dialog retains user inputs for Proportional Controller and Sensor Location so they are displayed the next time the dialog is opened.


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Release Notes

Range check and auto-correction in Chilled Ceiling and Direct Acting Heater dialogs [ID-0040709]: Range checking is performed when switching between controls in the Chilled Ceiling and Direct Acting Heater dialogs. Also, old values are retained when entering an out of range value. Air-source heat pump Performance rows editing improved [ID-0039254]: Air-source heat pump Performance rows can be edited in any order without affecting each other. Radiator types - lower limit of Heat output at Ref dT reduced to 0.2 kW [ID-0035879]: Lower limit of Heat output at Ref dT reduced to 0.2 kW, automatic range checking in place and edit values retained when an out of range value is entered. Room unit Sensed variable options depend on Sensor Location [ID-0031464]: When Sensor Location on any room unit is set to External the Sensed Variable cannot be set to Surface Temperature. Chilled Ceiling Controller units display corrected [ID-0039501]: When Chilled Ceiling Proportional Controller sensed variable is Surface Temperature the Midband unit is displayed as degC or degF. Updated default parameter values [ID-0016350]: The following default parameters have been updated: Room radiator:

Flow at Max.Control Signal: 0.05 -> 0.0 l/s

Flow at Min.Control Signal: 0.01 -> 0.05 l/s Room Direct Acting heater:

Output at Max.Control Signal: 2.00 -> 0.00

Output at Min.Control Signal: 0.5 -> 2.00 Time Switch Profile dialog improvements [ID-0040996]: The Time Switch Profile dropdown dialog no longer truncates longer profile names. Room unit dialog display improved [ID-0038695]: The room unit dialog is improved so that more Radiators, Direct Acting Heaters and Chilled Ceilings can be displayed without the need to scroll. Assign Room IDs improved [ID-0039721]: The Assign Room IDs feature is improved so that no changes are made to a project when the Cancel button is clicked and network corruption does not occur when the Assign Room IDs button is clicked after adding/removing rooms in ModelIT. Assign Room IDs highlights selected room [ID-0041077]: The Assign Room IDs dialog highlights the currently selected room on the network diagram and on the Rooms list. HVAC Wizard dialog improved [ID-0041318]: ApaheHVAC Wizard dialog display is improved so that preview diagram does not overlap with control buttons on the dialog. Moving Multiplex Boundary does not edit Principal Room [ID-0039926]: Resizing the Multiplex boundary does not change the Principal room inside the Multiplex. Multiplex toolbar disabled when no multiplex present [ID-0039365]: The multiplex toolbar is only enabled when a multiplex is selected. Delete layers button disabled when no layer selected [ID-0041223]: The delete layers button on the Edit Multiplex dialog is disabled when no layer is selected. Query item toolbar button active for multiplexed networks with multiple layers [ID-0039594]: The query item toolbar button can be used to query components in a multiplex network when it has multiple layers. Query multiplex component dialog more robust [ID-0041286]: While the multiplex component query dialog is open you can no longer: delete components in a multiplex, create a new network or open an existing network.


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Release Notes

Prototype System 5 IDDE improved [ID-0041063]: Economizer controls for IDDE system are revised to improve system performance. Prototype System 07d VAV Dual-Fan Dual-Duct system improved [ID-0041336]: 07d VAV Dual-Fan Dual-Duct System: Heating coil added on cold duct to ensure minimum temperature for min flow that must be maintain for outside air ventilation. Controller MC-16 Heating max airflow design sizing revised in Loads Data spreadsheet to counter the min flow from cold duct at min temperature with added flow at design temperature from hot duct. Loads Data spreadsheet "Zone cooling coil leaving air temp" revised [ID-0040561]: The Loads Data system 9 "Zone cooling coil leaving air temp" value is edit to be 55F so that the Room Cooling Loads tab "Supply Air DBT" can accept input of 55F for sizing other systems. Note: this minor issue caused slight oversizing of autosized systems and only affected VE versions 6.4.0.1 - 6.4.0.4. Maximum Occupancy for 62.1 Ventilation revised [ID-0040563]: The Maximum Occupancy value written to the Loads Data spreadsheet "Loads Results data" tab, which previously excluded Diversity Factor, now also excludes influence from any Occupancy schedule or profile---i.e., when the maximum value in the profile is less than 1.0, this will not reduce the peak occupancy for ventilation rates. The note in this section of the Loads Data spreadsheet has also been clarified accordingly, to read: "Maximum Occupancy. From Room Data — excluding both Diversity Factor and any influence from Occupancy Profiles. A diversity factor or schedule profile that never reaches 1.0 or 100% occupancy will not reduce the peak value for sizing of ventilation rates. The occupancy profile will, however, influence the dynamic determination of Design Cooling Load via ASHREA Loads, and thus system sizing."

MacroFlo Opening Types dialog input validation improved [ID-0031713]: Crack Length only accepts values in the range 0 – 500%. [ID-0031714]: Crackflow coefficient shows correct tooltip when units are US-IP. [ID-0031715]: Louvre Coefficient of discharge only accepts values within the range 0 – 0.6 Cd. [ID-0031716]: Duct Length only accepts values in the range 1 – 10m (3.28 – 32.8 ft) and when project units are US IP default value is set to 3.28 ft.

Vista Right clicking on .aps file deselects the file [ID-0021179]: Right clicking on a highlighted .aps file in Vista deselects the file. Set time of Snapshot via "Set dates" toolbar button [ID-0040866]: You can set the time of the snapshot via the "Set dates" toolbar button in the chart display window. Report generated when select multiple results files [ID-0021350]: A Simulation Report can be generated when select multiple .aps results files. The report is divided into different sections for each results file selected. Chart Data displays Filename at Room Level [ID-0014322]: When viewing opening results for a surface selected at room level Vista Chart Data correctly identifies the simulation results filename for any displayed results. Reported incident solar flux corrected [ID-0040779]: The SunCast-calculated portion of incident solar flux displayed for internal glazed surfaces is corrected so it is no longer counted twice. Display issue only - correct values, in particular solar gain, were still used in Apache simulations.


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Release Notes

Display is updated when "No system" is selected [ID-0039271]: Display is updated to show no results when "No system" group is selected from Systems grouping scheme. The "Set dates" window remains at the front when switching views [ID-0015540]: The "Set dates" window will remain at the front when swtiching between results views in the chart display window. Vista Chart reports value as n/a for data point out of aps file range [ID-0014318]: When the interrogation line is outwith a particular aps files range it reports the value as n/a. "Include in building floor area?" checkbox affects floor area reported [ID-0036653]: When the "Include in building floor area?" option is unchecked it is excluded from the results and reported correctly.

Tariff Analysis Generate Report button no longer causes crash [ID-0038986]: A report is now generated when the user selects "Generate Report" from the Tariff Analysis dialog. Able to enter "." into the Flat Rate field [ID-0040082]: You are able to enter "." into the Flat Rate field in the Tariff Dialog, this no longer results in an error when the Generate Report button is clicked. Tariff Analysis dialog improved [ID-0036614]: The Tariff Analysis Overview dialog is improved with tooltips to show complete contents of 'Supplier' and 'Tariff Descriptions' drop-downs.

ASHRAE 90.1 App. G - PRM PRM Simulations can be run on project after "save as" [ID-0041340]: After a project has been saved as another name the PRM Simulations can be run and the error "Invalid sensed node for controller: XXX Dry-bulb high-limit economizer with mixed-air target --" is not displayed. Baseline simulations settings revised [ID-0036149]: The Baseline model simulation settings are revised so that MacroFlo and Radiance links are switched off. Note: The MacroFlo link will be reviewed for Baseline simulations in a future version of VE. Baseline glazing assignment improved when surface has both external and internal sections [ID-0038327]: Assignment of glazing to Baseline model is improved so that when Proposed model surface has both external and internal sections only the external area is considered. Saving Baseline and Proposed networks improved [ID-0038808]: When user clicks "Save as" with Baseline or Proposed.asp file open in ApacheHVAC the save location will default to the current project folder. Adjustment applied to Ground Contact constructions [ID-0039267]: When import and assign Baseline constructions to the model the Ground Contact adjustment is correctly applied and does not trigger any errors. Elevators dialog improved [ID-0038326]: The Elevators dialog is improved (access via the Elevators action in the Room/Zone Thermal Template Data >> Other End uses group) so that when there are no spaces in the project defined as "Elevator" it is possible to enter 0 as Total number of elevators with no error being displayed. Informative warning messages are displayed when closing the Elevators dialog if the model contains one or more elevator spaces. System Parameters selects first system in list [ID-0039270]: When the Edit System Parameters dialog is opened (click the System Parameters action) the first system in the list is selected by default.


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Release Notes

System Schedules Opening Hours improved [ID-0039096]: System Schedules dialog (accessed via System Schedules action in HVAC systems section) is improved so that Opening Hours only accepts a valid Close time in relation to the Open time and the latest allowed Close time is 23:59 so that valid Profiles are always created based on these times. Edit System Parameters AHU selection improved [ID-0028434]: The Edit System Parameters dialog (access via System Parameters action in HVAC Systems group) is improved so that it is easier to select systems (including selection of multiple systems using Ctrl+click or Shift+click selection). System Schedules dialog retains Advanced Options inputs [ID-0031917]: The Advanced Setpoints and HVAC Timing inputs are retained the next time the System Schedules dialog is opened. ASHRAE 62.1 Report display corrections [ID-0034404]: The ASHRAE 62.1 Report is improved so that accuracy of reported Design Case % increase over standard is improved. Reports show correct U-values when Constructions have same ID [ID-0040986]: The PRM Report shows correct U-values (instead of reporting “-1.#J”) when opaque and glazed Constructions in the project have the same Construction ID. PRM report constructions improvements [ID-0038670]: Corrected the U-value calculation to use ASHRAE rather than EN-ISO. Also added IP/Metric conversion. PRM Navigator reordered [ID-0040206]: Actions on the PRM Navigator have been relocated. 'System Schedules' is moved to the top of the HVAC Systems section and 'Room conditions (setpoints)'is moved to the end of the HVAC Systems section. Assign Rooms Prompt moved [ID-33044]: The Assign Rooms Prompt has moved so that it is now located at the start of the HVAC Systems section. The Help link associated to this prompt is also improved to assist users with this step. Tariff Analysis launches from PRM Navigator [ID-0039407]: The Set Utility Tariff Data (Set Flat Rate or Set Advanced Rate) actions open 'Tariff Analysis Overview' dialog without any errors. 90.1 Room Grouping Schemes protected [ID-0038893]: The 90.1 Building are method and 90.1 Space by space method Room Grouping Schemes are protected so that users do not accidentally modify the Groups in these schemes and corrupt PRM projects.

VE Compliance Apache improved for large projects [ID-0040512]: Apache is improved so that BRUKL and EPC documents are generated when simulate models with results file sizes greater than 2GB. Archive stores Simulation Settings [ID-0022504]: Project Archives store the ApacheSim method settings as input on the Simulation Settings tab of Building and System Data. Missing Profiles warning improved [ID-0040349]: When profiles (usually NCM) are referenced in room template data but the profiles have been removed from the project profiles database a warning is displayed when the project is opened and the missing profiles are replaced by the On Continuously profile. This is intended to allow users to check the model and apply suitable alternatives for the missing profiles. Improvements made to Notional Building glazing assignment for small rooms [ID-0039444]: Notional Building glazing assignment is improved for rooms with a low height so that when the criteria to apply glazing 1.5m high at a sill height of 1.1m can not be met as much glazing as possible is applied to the exposed wall area above the sill height (rather than no glazing as previously happened in these cases).


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Release Notes

Notional building chiller fuel set as grid supplied electricity [ID-0040299]: In accordance with Paragraph 47 of the modelling guide the fuel type for cooling in the Notional Building is set to Grid Supplied Electricity regardless of what is set in the Actual Building. The Heat source selected in the NCM wizard takes precedence over Apache Systems selection "Is it a heat pump?" [ID-0039989]: The Apache Systems dialog will show a warning (and provide a tooltip) in the case that the selected Heat Pump option does not match the NCM wizard Heat Source selection (provided an NCM type has been set). Hot Water Fuel Type is retained when edit “Later than 1998?” option [ID-0025014]: SBEM method, the Hot Water Fuel Type is not reset each time the “Later than 1998?” option is ticked/unticked. HW Generator type "Same as apache system" writes correct output on .inp file [ID-0039948]: The correct output is written to the SBEM .inp file when selecting the Hot water Generator type "Same as Apache System". NCM System Wizard consistency improved when Heat Source is District Heating [ID-0036363]: When the Heat Source is District Heating the UK NCM System Wizard allows user to click on different tabs without switching back to Heating system tab. Air Supply Method combo box removed from "Ventilation" tab in SBEM mode [ID-0037620]: The "Air Supply Method" combo is not displayed on the ventilation tab in the UK NCM system data wizard when Method is SBEM. CO2 Conversion Factor edit improvements [ID-0036509]: The CO2 Conversion Factor input is editable when DHW only system is District Heating but HVAC system is not District Heating. ApacheSim Compliance only performs Criterion 3 check on applicable rooms [ID-0040736]: ApacheSim Compliance runs will only perform Criterion 3 test and report results for rooms that are occupied or mechanically cooled. Criterion 3 Report improved when room has internal glazing [ID-0036411]: The ApacheSim Criterion 3 Solar Gain Check Report is improved so that correct g-value for glazing is calculated excluding any internal window area in each room. Local mechanical ventilation and exhaust improved [ID-0034839]: Local mechanical ventilation and exhaust data is only displayed on the BRUKL for rooms that have these defined on the System tab of room data. Mechanical Supply is specified for new room depending on system type [ID-0038514]: When a new room is drawn the Mechanical Supply option will be ticked and default SFP 0.8 W/l/s applied if Mechanical Supply is applicable to the system assigned to that room. Mechanical Supply option is set when change System assigned to room [ID-0036309]: The "Is there mechanical supply in room?" option is updated when System is changed e.g. from a mechanically ventilated system to an AC system. Demand Controlled Ventilation options revised [ID-0039789]: The Demand Controlled Ventilation options on the System tab of VE Compliance room data are revised so that when the Mechanical Supply option is not defined for the room Demand Controlled Ventilation is not applicable and the only options are "No demand controlled ventilation" or "Enhanced ventilation". This is applied for new projects or upgraded projects created in earlier versions of VE. Local manual switching improvements [ID-0035905]: Local manual switching settings retained when changed in EGA or Room Data. ApacheSim - Check box will be enabled for rooms of 30m2 and under that have a permitted activity. In all other cases, the check box is disabled. SBEM - Check box will be enabled for rooms of any size that have a permitted activity. In all other cases, the check box is disabled. NCM Lighting Data inputs retained when assign Thermal template [ID-0036139]: The values entered on 'NCM Lighting Data' are retained correctly when a new Thermal template is assigned to a room.


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Release Notes

SBEM Heat Recovery can be set using Edit Group Attributes [ID-0037083]: SBEM method Heat Recovery can be set on the System tab of Edit Group Attributes. Edit Group Attributes updates NCM Lighting Data [ID-0041199]: Edit Group Attributes can be used in Section 6 2010 to update NCM Lighting Data for both ApacheSim or SBEM methods. Section 6 BRUKL Actual Building Infiltration correction [ID-0041146]: Section 6 2010 Scotland Compliance and EPC simulations use the correct Actual Building Permeability as defined on the Building Details tab of Building and System Data and this is reported on the BRUKL document and also used to calculate Actual Building Permeability-based Infiltration. Section 6 "S6 Type of Building" option changed from "Standard" to "Other buildings" [ID-0040943]: The options for S6 Type of Building is now "Other buildings", "Shell buildings" and "Extensions to the insulation envelope". Section 6 ApacheSim BRUKL document includes Shell and Core data [ID-0040924]: The Section 6 Compliance BRUKL document generated by ApacheSim includes Shell and Core building data. Section 6 results include Shell rooms [ID-0040938]: Section 6 2010 ApacheSim results includes Shell rooms when building is defined as Shell and Core. Section 6 2010 ApacheSim EPC results tab is active [ID-0040941]: After generating an EPC in Section 6 ApacheSim, the results tab remains active after running other subsequent calculations using other regulations and methods. SBEM EPC results tab remains active after simulation [ID-0037853]: The SBEM EPC results tab is always active if a simulation has been run and results generated. EPC results use TER including Portable or Modular Building Correction Factor [ID-0040879]: When Building is defined as being Portable or Modular the EPC results use TER corrected for Portable/Modular Factor. Air Conditioning system Exact Rated Output is included in ApacheSim EPC [ID-0040020]: EPCs generated using the ApacheSim method include the Air Conditioning system Exact Rated Output as entered on Building and System Data when Total Effective Rated Output is set to “Exact”.

Flucs Pro/DL Filled Contour Display improved [ID-0041387]: Filled Contour display has been improved to generate correct images in scenarios where colour bands were corrupted. Toolbar buttons grouped [ID-0036475]: The Flucs toolbar has been modified to group buttons. What Data to display includes

No lighting

Day lighting

Daylight factor

Sky view How to display data includes

Contour levels

Filled contour levels

Grey shading

Filled threshold contour

Numeric grid point values

Coloured numeric grid point values (new output option)


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Release Notes

Numeric grid point values can be displayed in foot-candles [ID-0038594]: The numeric grid value is displayed in Lux when project units are metric or fc when in US IP. Report correct sky model [ID-0018927]: The 'Summary' section of the IES Report shows the correct 'sky model' used in the calculations. Lock room selection if doing FlucsPro/DL calculations at model level [ID-0038547]: When performing a lighting analysis the user is prevented from changing the room selection when doing calculations at model level. Height above the floor of a point in the plane input validation [ID-0035725]: The 'Height above the floor of a point in the plane' input now accepts only valid data and it creates a plane only when the plane is within the room-height range.

Lifecycle Economic Life Factors Remove button enabled [ID-0025382]: The Add , Remove and Rename buttons on the Economic Life Factor dialog works as expected.

IndusPro Removed obsolete circular duct sizes [ID-0009653]: Some standard circular sizes (180, 224 and 280 mm) are obsolete and have now been removed from the standard and extended size ranges; you should consider each of your pre-existing projects and decide whether you need to recalculate (if using standard or extended size ranges), remove or change certain user-defined sizes (if you had defined these) or remove or change certain fixed sizes (if you had fixed sizes on certain ducts). This will depend on whether it is a new design or a check of an existing design.

VE-Gaia Water tools improved [ID-0038391]: The VE-Gaia Water calculations have been improved so that the correct number of operational days in a year are used when method is BREEAM, daily consumption values are calculated based on calculated appliance demands and baseline Building Type is set based on the Proposed.

Navigators Navigator for BREEAM can only be used with a saved project [ID-0038265]: The Navigator for BREEAM analyses can only be run after a project has been saved. If an attempt is made to run any analysis without first saving the project a warning is displayed and user has option to save the project before starting the simulation. Navigator for BREEAM Day lighting HEA1 Report displays correct Reflectances [ID-0040547]: The Navigator for BREEAM is improved so that Day Lighting HEA1 can be used to assign reflectances to all surfaces and these are reflected in the report. BREEAM Day lighting HEA1 Report displays Floor for each Space [ID-0040548]: The BREEAM Day lighting HEA1 Report tables display the correct Floor for each Space in the analysis based on the Floors Room Grouping Scheme. Prototype System Sizing Navigator System Schedules Advanced Options corrected [ID-0041348]: The System Schedules action can be used to apply Setpoints and HVAC Timing to individual day profiles using the Advanced options. Prototype System Sizing Navigator System Schedules dialog retains Opening Hours [ID-0041347]: The Opening Hours entered by the user are retained the next time the System Schedules dialog is opened.


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Release Notes

Prototype System Sizing Navigator >> AHU System Parameters action moved [ID-0036022]: The AHU System Parameters action in the Prototype System Sizing Navigator is now accessible before the System Sizing runs (it is moved after the System Schedules action) and is renamed "System Parameters". UK Part L2A 2010 DSM Navigator improved [ID-0037578]: The UK Part L2A 2010 DSM Reports can not be accessed until the Compliance simulation has been run and "Simulate..." action is ticked. LEED USA Water Uses Dialog improved [ID-0034062]: The LEED USA Water Uses dialog (accessed via Edit Appliance Data button) are improved so that dropdowns can be edited without having to exit and re-enter dialog to see the change applied.

IESVE Plug-in for Autodesk Revit Set Model Properties retains custom Constructions [ID-0033865]: The custom Constructions are retained when "Set Model Properties" dialog is opened again.

VE-Toolkits VistaPro is available after using VE-Toolkits [ID-0023168]: The VistaPro toolbar can be used after running VE-Toolkits analyses. Water Review Report is generated [ID-0040513]: The 'Water Review' report is generated successfully using VE-Toolkit.

VE-Ware 2030 & Simulation Settings dialog improved [ID-0039222]: The 2030 & Simulation Settings dialog shows full contents of dropdowns when expanded.


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Release Notes


Apache CIBSE Cooling Loads Bug Fix [ID- 0041012]: A space which is not explicitly modelled (one identified as ‘adjacent building’ or a space in an inactive layer) and has an adjacency with a modelled room should be treated as having the same condition as that room for the purpose of calculating the inter-room heat transfer. In versions 6.3.0.1 to 6.4.0.4 this rule was not applied correctly in the case of the calculation of cooling loads using the CIBSE method. In this case the adjacent room was assumed to be at the external air temperature, which in most climates will tend to produce an over-prediction of peak room cooling load. The rule was implemented correctly in all other cases (CIBSE heating loads, ASHRAE heating and cooling loads, simulation and UK NCM heating and cooling load calculations).

VE Compliance ApacheSim Compliance simulation BRUKL generation improved [ID-0040823]: Part L2 2010 ApacheSim Compliance simulations improved so that BRUKL document is generated without error and systems are output correctly (previously some models failed to generate the BRUKL certificate at the end of the simulation). Design Comparison Report Lighting Systems section corrected [ID-0041104]: The Design Comparison Report in the UK Part L2A 2010 DSM Navigator is improved so that the Lighting Systems section reports correct values when actual building lighting gains have been edited in room data. Section 6 Notional Building Infiltration rate corrected [ID-0040696]: The Section 6 2010 Notional Building used in ApacheSim Compliance and EPC uses an Infiltration rate calculated based on an air permeability of 10 m3/h.m2. Section 6 Notional system corrected when Actual uses District Heating [ID-0040735]: When the Section 6 Actual Building system uses District Heating the Notional equivalent system will be defined as a typical boiler with fuel either Natural Gas or Oil.


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Release Notes


VE Compliance Notional Systems use correct Heating efficiencies [ID-0040185]: Part L2 & Part F 2010 ApacheSim method Notional Building apache systems use the correct SCoP, Seasonal Efficiency and Delivery Efficiency based on values specified in the NCM Modelling Guide regardless of whether the system serves Space Conditioning or only Hot Water. Section 6 2010 ApacheSim EPC method uses correct Fuel Factors for Bivalent System [ID-0040178]: The Section 6 2010 ApacheSim EPC uses the correct 2010 regulations Fuel Factors to calculate the Carbon Emission Factor for Bivalent systems (correct factor is displayed in Apache Systems and used in calculation of BER).


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Release Notes


ApacheHVAC DX Cooling units autosized correctly [ID-0039589]: Protoype systems 3 - 6 are autosized correctly if DX units are reassigned following cooling coil sizing and are set to override the capacity of their connected cooling coils at the next simulation.

VE Compliance Edits to Lighting Gains retained when upgrade model from VE 6.1.1 [ID-0038861]: When a model is upgraded from VE 6.1.1.x to VE 6.4.0.2 onwards any edits made to NCM Lighting gains in room data are retained. Note: The method of editing Display Lighting differs between the 2006 regs and the 2010 regs so any changes made to Display Lighting gains will be reverted back to the Activity template defaults when upgraded. Section 6 2010 Notional Building does not use Bivalent System [ID-0040090]: Section 6 2010 ApacheSim and ApacheSim EPC Notional Building does not use a Bivalent System.


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Release Notes


ApacheHVAC DX Cooling Types and Chilled Water Loops dialogs improved [ID-0039165]: The DX Cooling types and Chilled Water Loops dialogs are more consistent so that when modifying the existing entries no duplicates are created.

VE Compliance Section 6 Compliance uses correct Carbon Dioxide Emission Factors to calculate Emissions [ID-0039731]: The Section 6 2010 ApacheSim Compliance simulation uses the correct 2010 regulations Fuel factors when calculating Carbon Emissions. Rooms with more than 10 floor heights can be used without errors [ID-0039688]: When a room with more than 10 distinct floor surface heights is used in VE Compliance no errors occur during simulation or notional building generation. Section 6 SBEM does not include LIGHT-METERING [ID-0039816]: Section 6 2010 SBEM Compliance and EPC calculations do not include Light Metering (a value of 1 is written to the .inp file for the LIGHT-METERING keyword so this does not affect results). Section 6 displays the 2010 auxiliary energy method [ID-0039748]: Section 6 2010 ApacheSim method displays the 2010 auxiliary energy method data when query the actual building systems in Apache systems Section 6 Actual building Test simulation update Cooling loads for auxiliary energy calculation option [ID-0039748]: The Section 6 2010 ApacheSim method Compliance and EPC CO2 Emissions: Test Run simulation settings dialog includes an option to “update design cooling loads for auxiliary energy calculation”. Section 6 2010 ApacheSim method reports correct TER on BRUKL certificate [ID-0039795]: When using Section 6 2010 ApacheSim Compliance the correct TER value is calculated and written to the BRUKL certificate.

<VE> 6.4.0 Release Notes

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Release Notes

<VE> 6.4.0 Changes

Building Template Manager BTM window size reduced [ID-0039169]: BTM window reduced and can now be viewed on resolutions of 1024 x 768.

ModelIT Unit conversion now applied to overhang depth in Generate Roofs dialog [ID-0039154]: When in IP mode, the roof is now generated correctly according to the value entered in "ft". Merge tool improvements [ID-0035929]: When two rooms are merged and the room above overhangs around the perimeter, glazing is no longer added to the ceiling of the lower room. Edit space dialogue box text corrected [ID-0037689]: The cutting plane is generated based on a distance from the bottom left vertice of the room not the origin. The label changed to "Distance from lower left corner of bounding box (units)" (i.e. the bounding box origin). Body data no longer lost when composite spaces separated [ID-0038605]: When composite spaces are separated the zone data for the remaining connected spaces is no longer lost. Update model browser with room property changes [ID-0039204]: The model browser gets updated when the room properties are changed. Improved drag tool [ID-0014946]: The improved drag tool does not allow user to create invalid geometry. Intbody improvements [ID-0039185]: The 'intbody' command works properly and it does not hide room when they are not intersecting. VE crash prevented [ID-0038890]: The 'Export DXF File' action with 'Surface Representation to Polyface Mesh' and uncheck the ‘Include Openings’ setting does not crash the VE. Construction line improvements [ID-0038471]: The construction lines are shown in all views. Generate roof improvements [ID-0029370]: The 'Generate roof for selected spaces' function is improved for complex geometries. Export DXF File opens project folder as default [ID-0038903]: The 'Export DXF File..' action opens the project directory as default to save dxf file. Storey dropdown updates [ID-0037631]: The storey drop-down gets updated when room types are changed.

Construction Database CDB internal shading dialog warning [ID-0023034]: CDB internal shading dialog now has one warning rather than two if a value that is too large or small is entered.


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Release Notes

Component Modeller "Storey" combo box is no longer shown in Component Modeller [ID-0038050]: "Storey" data is irrelevant in the Component Modeller.

SunCast Multi select rooms in the workspace [ID-0009154]: It is now possible to select multiple rooms in the workspace as as well as the room browser list itself.

ApView Edit group attributes for cooling profile improvements [ID-0038961]: Edit group attributes now sets SYS_COOL profile correctly.

ApPro Edit annual profile improvements [ID-0039081]: No longer flashes when double-clicking month or day cells when editing an annual profile. Also, after populating the month or day combo in the yearly profile dialog, the current value is selected.

ApacheSim Lower limits on fluid mass flows [ID-0039102]: Set lower limits on fluid mass flows used to initialize fluid mass flow iteration. This prevents a divide by zero error. MacroFlo includes holes [ID-0039542]: Apache simulation with MacroFlo link takes account of any holes present in the building. When there are external holes an error will be displayed and the simulation will not proceed. Simple cooling coil improvements [ID-0039262]: Prevent divide by zero errors when recording the sensible heat ratio for HVAC cooling coils.

Apache HVAC Multiplex boundary box improvements [ID-0021941]: Multiplex boundary box is now thinner in the Assign Room IDs diagram. Deleting multiplex improvements [ID-0026692]: Copy, paste and delete now behave as expected. Invalid values for boiler pump usage parameter in wizard-created systems [ID-0026542]: Systems created using the wizard now have sensible values for the new boiler pump usage parameter. OK in multiplexed radiators is now setting heat source type on other layers [ID-0039209]: Correctly sets the heat source/cooling source type when the "OK" room component is selected. Increase DX unit limit [ID-0039227]: Increased limit from 200 to 1600 for all types of plant that serve heating/cooling coils.


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Release Notes

Sizing Status warning text now displayed [ID-0037776]: If you manually enter out of bound cooling coil Design Sizing parameters using Multiple Edit a warning will be displayed in the Sizing Status bar. EAC chiller dialog text update [ID-0033826]: Redundant 'Chilled water' in EAC chiller parameter labels removed. Cooling tower Design approach updates [ID-0039507]: The 'Cooling tower: Design approach' value gets updated when the 'Design outdoor wet build temperature' & 'Design condenser entering water temp'. Room radiator controller improvements [ID-0039331]: Room radiator controller settings are now saved correctly. Add Chilled Ceilings to room now correctly enabled [ID-0038845]: Can now add a chilled ceiling to a room without having to go through prototype system first. Cooling coil max duty upper limit [ID-0039197]: Cooling coil max kW increased to 50000 kW ApacheHVAC is swapping component reference with autosize mapping [ID-0039231]: Component references are now correctly maintained within HVAC View.

Vista Heating & Cooling Load Summary correctly enabled [ID: 0037610]: After running a CIBSE or ASHRAE heating and cooling loads simulation, the menu option Vista-->Building Heating & Cooling Load Summary is no longer disabled in Vista even when the heating or cooling results file is selected.

ASHRAE 90.1 App. G - PRM System 9 sizing improvements [ID-0039035]: HVAC network is now reloaded when generating the proposed sizing report. PRM report constructions improvements [ID-0038670]: Corrected the U-value calculation to use ASHRAE rather than EN-ISO. Also added IP/Metric conversion.

<VE Compliance> Notional building generation more robust [ID-0038583]: Notional building generation is improved so there is less chance of VE crashing when unexpected geometry is encountered in the actual building. Turn off "Other" gains [ID-0038721]: “Other” gains now removed from the NCM calculation. Lighting power density corrected for Misc 24Hr / ServerRoomI [ID-0037350]: Changed from 5.2 W/m2 to 3.75 W/m2 (same as ServerRoom). NCM Hospital activity with zero occupancy density corrected [ID-0036705]: NCM database upgrade - revised data set for this activity as the incorrect occupancy density of zero affected several other set parameters and schedules. Removed duplicate generator type from DHW page [ID-0037778]: Removed duplicate generator type from DHW page of Apache Systems. VE crash [ID-0038785]: VE no longer crashes after changing reference building type and then selecting notional building. ApacheSim BRUKL System Performance table improved [ID-0038862]: Correct Actual and Notional systems


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Release Notes

performance results are now displayed. Section 6 Metering Provision tab disabled in NCM Wizard [ID-0038987]: Disabled the metering provision tab in the NCM Wizard for SBEM. Generate unwatermarked EPCs for Scotland [ID-0039586]: Section 6 SBEM and DSM EPCs do not have the watermark. SBEM EPC Results tab shows uncorrected TER for Portable/Modular building [ID-0039376]: For a modular building, uncorrected TER now generates the "newly built" benchmark on EPC, via the formula (TER / SER) x 50. The VE-SBEM EPC now reports the uncorrected TER. ApacheSim BRUKL shows TER adjustment factor [ID-0039367]: A BRUKL certificate generated using L2 2010 ApacheSim now shows line 1.6 in the Criterion 1 table "TER adjustment factor for modular or portable buildings" NCM cooling profile set point improvements [ID: 0039151]: NCM cooling profile set points (hourly values) no longer override activity set points. Lighting configuration fixed [ID-0039533]: SBEM EPC and Compliance: lighting configuration fixed, now allows definition by lamp type only. IES Report update [ID-0039311]: The 'IES Report' is updated to show the text stating:"To display actual building results, turn on "Sensible internal gains breakdown" in Output Options (Simulation Settings)." NCM system data wizard retains CHP check [ID-0038831]: CHP checkbox information is no longer retained when switching systems. Portable or Modular Building ApacheSim BRUKL shows corrected TER [ID-0038030]: Now shows the corrected TER on the BRUKL report. Criterion 3 panel is hidden [ID-0037954]: The 'Criterion 3' panel is hidden for SBEM-Compliance & SBEM-EPC method. Room properties retained when use Merge or Subtract tools [ID-0038845]: When a room is Merged or has another room Subtracted from it the Room thermal properties (template assigned and any edits at room data level) are retained. Notional building generation more robust [ID-0038583]: Notional building generation is improved so there is less chance of VE crashing when unexpected geometry is encountered in the actual building.

FlucsPro/DL FlucsPro/DL calculations improved at higher quality settings [ID-0025275]: The Flucs calculations are improved so they run faster at higher quality settings. Sky View display option added [ID-0025275]: A new option is added to the FlucsDL/Pro toolbar "what to display options". Sky View definition: If there is a direct line from any point on the sky grid to any point on the working plane grid (through windows and openings but without passing through any obstruction) then that point has a sky view of 1. If not it has a sky view of 0. Using a threshold value of, say, 0.5 will allow you to see the percentage area with a sky view. It is easier to see the levels if you are not in contour view (choose filled contours or grey-scale instead). General improvements to Flucs DL/Pro [ID-0025275]: General improvements to Flucs DL/Pro;


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Release Notes

Calculation grids are modified to best fit floor plans of model that has been rotated in plan view.

Task is entirely within a room, improved for complex floor plan. Area will be best fit to match rotated model.

Multi-room analysis calculation can be cancelled by a single click on Cancel button (previously had to cancel for each room in the analysis).

Radiance Issues due to Meridian/Longitude corrected [ID-0037173]: When longitude is close to 180 deg E or W, RadianceIES correctly recognises the location and there are no problems with calculations or reading results files. Illuminance Grid Settings dialog limit improvements [ID-0038234]: When in IP units the limits on the Grid Settings dialog inputs are now consistent. Explicit units conversion [ID-0038876]: Correct value is now displayed for Lux (lm/sqm) and FC (lm/sqft). Meridian/Longitude problem in SunCast Site Location dialog [ID-0037173]: When longitude is close to 180 deg E or W, this dialog now displays Standard Meridian of 180.00 with the same East/West designation as the Longitude.

Navigator Design options report improvements [ID-0037713]: The report now shows "--" instead of 0 when the values aren't found. Help file improvements [ID-0039195]: The Navigator help files are opened properly and it shows correct file.

Gaia Daylighting image enhanced [ID-0038568]: Daylighting image resolution in reports has been improved. Green Star water dialog data improvements [ID-0038009]: The Green Star water dialog data is now read properly. Errors could occur if any appliance type had been given more than one entry in a previous VE session. Report text improved [ID-0038788]: The side bar text on IES Report appears properly. Report images improved [ID-0038567]: IES Report image quality is improved and images are shown properly. Multi-room calculations retain user-defined working planes and task areas [ID-0038020]: Multi-room calculations now retain user-defined working planes and user-defined task areas (whether defined in the default working plane or a user-defined working plane).

Tariff Analysis Tariff dialog improvements [ID-0037651]: If notional .aps file is present opening tariff dialog no longer produces "Could not display requested form" error. Prompt warning message to users if select incorrect proposed aps file [ID-0037372]: Warning message now appears to users if incorrect proposed .aps file is selected. Set Advanced Navigator Generate Report button no longer causes crash [ID-0038986]: If the user opens the Tariff Dialog via the 'Set Advanced' navigator option and then clicks on the button to generate a report the dialog will no longer crash.


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Release Notes

SketchUp Plug-in Room identification does not cause error [ID-0038159]: The occasional bugsplat that would occur during room identification is corrected. Room Identification improved [ID-0038151]: When rooms have already been identified, subsequent runs of the room identification tool will not modify rooms or room names (when option to preserve room names is selected). Note: in some cases it is not possible to preserve room names, when this occurs the affected rooms will be named "Lost Name x" so the user can rename these prior to exporting to VE. Reduce number of files copied to AppData [ID-0038161]: Now only copies files that need to be written to. SketchUp Maximum Wall Thickness check not applied to Thin Walls [ID-0034146]: The check is now only performed when in Thick Walls mode. Non-ASCII characters in project path [ID-0022057]: When you try to launch the VE when a model has non-ASCII characters the warning is displayed "Model name, xxx, contains unsupported characters. It will be exported as "skp_export_noname". Do you want to continue?" Yes launches the VE with the new name project. No cancels the launch VE. Restoring faces improvements [ID-0038142]: In some cases, the SketchUp API call to add a new face (when restoring either plug-in or original model faces) has been seen to fail. This has now been improved so the surfaces no longer disappear. Room import improvements [ID-0037908]: Improvements made to the room import as some models got imported with missing surfaces mainly where there should be glazing. Restoring model room faces improvements [ID-0039146]: No longer receive bugsplat when restoring model room faces. Context menu improvements [ID-0039157]: The context menu works properly without closing '<VE> Room properties dialog' and the model does not switch to SketchUp mode. Cancel now cancels the identification process [ID-0037907]: Clicking 'Cancel' on '<VE> Analysis settings' cancels the identification process. Construction assignment improved [ID-0017839]: All Constructions selected in the Construction Sets assigned to the SketchUp model (either in Building Properties or Room Properties) are assigned to the correct surfaces when the model is imported to VE. Retain model settings [ID: 0019818]: The model settings are retained when the model is opened by double clicking the .skp file. Analysis settings improvements [ID-0027933]: The 'VE Analysis Settings' dialog retains the set value. Rooms identified in unsaved model [ID-0038153]: Rooms can be identified even if the model is not saved. Room property dialog improvements [0038511]: The new features are added to the room property dialog:

Cannot assign properties if no room is selected.


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Release Notes

Can apply properties if multiple rooms are selected. Preserve room names [ID-0038696]: The room names are preserved when identifying room for another time. Initial analysis setting improvements [ID-0038194]: The SketchUp Initial analysis settings remain the same when the model is opened using alternative methods. User guide improvements [ID-0038130]: The 'SketchUp user guide' dialog remains open until the User guide is fully loaded.

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