Abstract
We propose an open-source-based workflow which connects Building Information Modelling (BIM) with thermal Finite Element (FE) - Analysis. We use the open IFCstandard for data interoperability and leverage opensource FE software packages for both 2D and 3D thermal analysis. The Finite Element Method (FEM) represents a highly flexible state-of-the-art approach for thermal analysis in construction engineering. With the recent increase in computing power, even complex 3D FE models can be analysed within a feasible amount of time. However, the integration of FE-Analysis into BIM-workflows remains an active area of research. Especially, a consistent and automated flow of material and boundary condition information is a challenging task to realize. The aim of this work is to contribute to the advancement of automated and open-source-based solutions for thermal analysis of buildings. The proposed workflow has the potential to decrease the time needed for evaluation of energy efficient building designs, especially in early design-phases. Its open-source nature promotes transparency, reproducibility, and collaboration in the building industry. The implementation of the proposed workflow results in a software prototype, which is tested based on a selected use case.