Application of computer based environmental assessment and optimization tools: An approach for appropriating buildings

Abstract

The main aim of this paper is to devise a research methodology that employs computer based environmental assessment tools, to be used to quantify the effectiveness of passive measures. The use of computer allows the visualization of the unseen environmental attributes in a three dimensional interface, permitting by such more effective understanding of the issues involved in the quantification process. This will also open up this methodology for use by researchers from different professional backgrounds. It also could prove very useful in the identification of the most efficient solutions to the upgrading of the environmental performance of existing buildings. The results of work appertaining to the proposed methodological approach are presented.