Tas and EnergyPlus

EDSL Tas can both import and export EnergyPlus IDF files.

EnergyPlus IDF files generally contain good quality data and a comprehensive set of inputs, making IDF import a reliable and convenient way to get data into EDSL Tas quickly.

IDF import to Tas3D:

Create a new Tas 3D model from an IDF file. In Tas3D you can create feature shading systems and edit windows. The file can be used for daylighting calculations and Climate Based Daylighting Modelling using Tas3D’s built-in daylighting engine.

 

IDF import to TBD:

Create a new, ready-to-simulate model from an IDF file. Geometry, room assignments, opaque and glazed constructions, gains, thermostats, and humidistats are all imported. Surface shading can optionally be imported.

 

IDF import to Tas3D and TBD:

Combines all the advantages of the import types mentioned above, simultaneously creating new Tas3D and TBD files. Enables the user to, e.g., import the IDF and immediately carry out daylighting calculations on the geometry, then export to TBD and find all the construction and internal condition data already assigned and the TBD ready to simulate or to import into a Tas Studio.

 

IDF export from TBD:

Any TBD that is ready to simulate can be used to create an IDF file which is ready to simulate in EnergyPlus (for room loads only).

 

The IDF Import and IDF Export features make it easy for current EnergyPlus users to get started with EDSL Tas.

 

Exporting SAP geometry from Tas

The TBD SAP geometry tool now has the option to export data in the JPA Designer XML format.

The SAP geometry tool uses the data from the TBD file to calculate surface areas and thermal bridges according to SAP 2012 guidelines. Geometry and heat loss data is exported to Excel (with an option to include images showing thermal bridge locations). The tool can export data in XML formats suitable for JPA Designer or NHER Plan Assessor.

Importing gbXML data into Tas

The Solution for Reusing gbXML Geometry

Tas has a quick, robust, and versatile gbXML import capability which allows files to be imported quickly, inconsistent geometry automatically identified and repaired, and further edits to be made.

Modified geometry can be exported from Revit and merged into the Tas 3D file, retaining any changes made by the user.

Imported gbXML geometry can be used as the basis for any Tas calculation type, including daylighting and CBDM, UK Building Regulations, detailed HVAC analysis, and more!

EDSL can provide extensive guidance on the subject of gbXML re-use, including videos, example files, and documentation.

More information can be found here.

Interoperability with EnergyPlus

In the latest version of Tas (v9.4.2) the software’s capability to import and export IDF files has expanded again.

  • Exported IDF files will now include an IdealLoadsAirSystem object for each zone, allowing immediate simulation of room loads in EnergyPlus.
  • Surface shading data can now be imported from EnergyPlus CSV files

Tas can import or export data between the TBD and IDF formats, transferring the following data types:

  • Building geometry
  • Internal conditions (gains, schedules, thermostats, humidistats)
  • Construction data (building fabric)

EPW weather data can also be imported.

This capability allows cooperation on projects between Tas and EnergyPlus users, and provides a way for EnergyPlus users to become familiar with Tas using one of their existing projects.