A new simplified thermal design tool for architects

Architects form an integral link in the design of efficient buildings. Energy-efficient design strategies therefore, require architects and engineers to work closely together in optimising the building shell. However, this is not always practical. Architects must therefore, be able to perform a preliminary thermal analysis if energy efficient design strategies are to succeed. Existing tools do not cater for them or fit their design methodology. A need therefore exists for a simplified thermal design tool for architects. This article discusses the development of a tool to fulfil this requirement.