Green Mark - Singapore

User Guide

Powered by the IES Virtual Environment

Contents
1 Assessment of Green Mark - Singapore................................................ 5
1.1 Green Mark Navigator Introduction ...................................................................................5
1.2 VE Interface Elements Introduction ......................................................................................6

2 Setup .................................................................................................... 8
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4

Workflow concept ...............................................................................................................8

Location / weather file .........................................................................................................8
Import baseline files ............................................................................................................8
Building Geometry ...............................................................................................................9

2.4.1
2.4.2
2.4.3

Enter modelling mode ................................................................................................................................. 9

Settings ........................................................................................................................................................ 9
Input Options ............................................................................................................................................. 10

2.5 Site Obstructions and Shading............................................................................................ 11

2.5.1

Set selected zones to obstructions ............................................................................................................ 11

2.6 Building Orientation .......................................................................................................... 12

2.7 Room grouping (GM) ......................................................................................................... 12

3 Thermal envelope ............................................................................... 13

3.1 Create constructions .......................................................................................................... 13
3.2 Assign constructions .......................................................................................................... 14

4 Ap Systems ......................................................................................... 15
4.1 Hot water systems ............................................................................................................. 15
4.2 Ventilation approach (CMM) .............................................................................................. 15

5 Activities ............................................................................................. 16
5.1 Open Template Manager to set up templates .................................................................... 16
5.2 Import templates ............................................................................................................... 16
5.3 Create model templates:.................................................................................................... 16
5.3.1
5.3.2
5.3.3

Set building type and Set room type ......................................................................................................... 16

Receptacle, People and Lighting loads ...................................................................................................... 17
Other end uses........................................................................................................................................... 17

6 Natvent designs .................................................................................. 18

6.1 Set up Macroflo opening types........................................................................................... 18
6.2 Assign types to windows / doors ........................................................................................ 18

7 ApHVAC systems ................................................................................. 19

7.1 Import system prototypes.................................................................................................. 19
7.1.1

Enter HVAC mode ...................................................................................................................................... 19

7.2 Name systems ................................................................................................................... 19

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7.3
7.4
7.5
7.6

Assign spaces ..................................................................................................................... 19

Edit boilers / chillers / heat recovery devices / fans ............................................................ 20
System schedules............................................................................................................... 20
Plant sizing (option): .......................................................................................................... 20

7.6.1
7.6.2
7.6.3
7.6.4

Room Load Calculations............................................................................................................................. 20

Assign Room Sizing Data ............................................................................................................................ 20
System Load Calculations .......................................................................................................................... 20
Update fan and coil sizing data .................................................................................................................. 21

7.7 Configure fan pressure drops ............................................................................................. 21

7.8 Validate proxy ApSystems against ApHVAC ........................................................................ 21

8 Renewables ........................................................................................ 22
8.1 Open dialog (PVs and Wind)............................................................................................... 22
8.2 Solar thermal ..................................................................................................................... 22

9 Compliance models ............................................................................. 23

9.1 Enter GM compliance mode ............................................................................................... 23
9.2 Proposed model: ............................................................................................................... 23
9.2.1
9.2.2
9.2.3
9.2.4
9.2.5

Create/refresh proposed model from real model ..................................................................................... 23

Edit substitutions: ...................................................................................................................................... 23
Pre-requisite checks:.................................................................................................................................. 24
Create proposed systems .......................................................................................................................... 24
Plant sizing (option): .................................................................................................................................. 24

9.3 Reference model: .............................................................................................................. 25

9.3.1
9.3.2
9.3.3

10

Create/refresh reference model from proposed model............................................................................ 25

Pre-requisites: ............................................................................................................................................ 25
Create baseline systems: ........................................................................................................................... 25

Simulation ............................................................................. 27

10.1 Pre-simulations:................................................................................................................. 27
10.1.1
10.1.2

Solar ........................................................................................................................................................... 27
Daylight (option) ........................................................................................................................................ 27

10.2 Thermal simulations: ......................................................................................................... 27

10.2.1
10.2.2

11

Settings ...................................................................................................................................................... 27
Simulate compliance models ..................................................................................................................... 27

Part 0 - model ........................................................................ 28

11.1 Customise report logo........................................................................................................ 28

11.2 Point summary .................................................................................................................. 28
11.3 Cost details / Energy results ............................................................................................... 28

12

Part 1 - energy eff. A .............................................................. 29

12.1 ETTV NRB 1-1 ..................................................................................................................... 29

12.2 Air-con system NRB 1-2...................................................................................................... 29

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Part 1 - energy eff. B .............................................................. 30

13.1 Envelope NRB 1-3 .............................................................................................................. 30

13.2 Natvent / mech-vent NRB 1-4 ............................................................................................ 30

14

Part 1 - energy eff. C .............................................................. 31

14.1 Artifical lighting NRB 1-6 .................................................................................................... 31

14.1.1
14.1.2
14.1.3

Edit spaces ................................................................................................................................................. 31

Report ........................................................................................................................................................ 31
Ext lighting ................................................................................................................................................. 31

14.2 Car Park Ventilation NRB 1-7.............................................................................................. 31

14.2.1
14.2.2

Check room activities set ........................................................................................................................... 31

Report ........................................................................................................................................................ 31

14.3 Common Area Ventilation NRB 1-8 .................................................................................... 31

14.3.1
14.3.2

Check room activities set ........................................................................................................................... 31

Report ........................................................................................................................................................ 31

14.4 Lifts NRB 1-9 ...................................................................................................................... 32

14.4.1
14.4.2

Check lift data ............................................................................................................................................ 32

Report ........................................................................................................................................................ 32

14.5 Energy eff. features NRB 1-10 ............................................................................................ 32

14.5.1
14.5.2
14.5.3

Green walls ................................................................................................................................................ 32

Energy eff. features ................................................................................................................................... 32
Report ........................................................................................................................................................ 32

14.6 Renewables NRB 1-11 ........................................................................................................ 32

14.6.1
14.6.2

15

Tenant details ............................................................................................................................................ 32

Report ........................................................................................................................................................ 32

Appendices ............................................................................ 33

15.1 Appendix A ........................................................................................................................ 33

15.1.1
15.1.2

Weather data ............................................................................................................................................. 33

Model data................................................................................................................................................. 33

15.2 Appendix B: ETTV details ................................................................................................... 33

15.3 Appendix C ........................................................................................................................ 33
15.3.1
15.3.2

Report Data ................................................................................................................................................ 33

Appendix C: GMIS submission form........................................................................................................... 33

15.4 Project Details/Summary ................................................................................................... 33

15.4.1
15.4.2

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User details ................................................................................................................................................ 33

Project details ............................................................................................................................................ 33

Green Mark - Singapore

Green Mark - Singapore navigator

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1 Assessment of Green Mark - Singapore

1.1 Green Mark Navigator Introduction
Step-by-step analysis workflows -- Green Mark Methodology Tools complete workflow environment is
driven by step-by-step smart navigation that opens wide the power of IES analysis. A series of Navigator
steps guide users through a range of tasks; from modelling the building, to energy/carbon analysis, to
individual credit interrogation and report creation.

The Green Mark Navigator establishes a workflow concept to guide the user through the Green Mark
Initiative assessment process. It particularly targets the BCA Green Mark Energy credits in the BCA Green
Mark Certification Standard v.4 for New Buildings.

Detailed reports and modelling output are aimed at providing insight into building performance above
and beyond the credit calculation requirements.

A range of individual software modules and features are available within the VE-Pro suite, which are used
to construct a detailed Green Mark model. The navigator allows switching between modules and provides
guidance on which module is appropriate to use for the required functionality. It is beneficial to
familiarize yourself with the specific capabilities of each module and their corresponding User Interface
elements.

The Green Mark Navigator is a tool which brings all of the individual VE-Pro modules and features
together in a single area and presents the user with step-by-step smart navigation and management of
the compliance workflow and analysis process. The Navigator is driven through the successful execution
of specific actions and commands which are activated by the user in a defined sequence. Some of the
actions in the navigator will trigger functionality within VE-Pro, whilst other steps are for guidance or to
remind the user to check a number of assumptions and pre-requisites.

This smart navigation leads the user through the process of basic geometry creation, to
constructions/thermal data assignment, and ultimately to the automatic generation of a full set of
simulation results and credit analysis reports.

The Navigator also provides the user with predefined prototypical Singapore data which can be used to
populate the model with default baseline information, location-appropriate constructions, and prototype
HVAC networks.

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The main structure of the Green Mark Navigator workflow includes the following steps:
1. Preliminary Data setup
2. Model Geometry / Zone Creation
3. Envelope Thermo/Physical Properties
4. DHW / Ventilation strategy
5. Zone Configuration
6. Ventilation Setup / HVAC systems
7. Energy Saving Measures
8. Generate Proposed / Baseline variants
9. Simulations
10. Analysis / Results

1.2 VE Interface Elements Introduction

The Main User Interface Toolbar and Menu sit at the top of the product interface. The Navigator window
sits to the left of the interface, below the main toolbar. Below the Navigator is the (Room) Browser area.
The Browser content will change depending on the currently active VE-Pro module. Both the Browser and
Navigator display can be toggled on/off with controls on the Main Toolbar. The right hand side of the
interface contains the display of the currently active VE-Pro module. Most modules will also contain their
own module-specific toolbar(s).
The Navigator functions as a series of hyperlinks that are accessed within the smart navigator tree
structure that is located on the upper left side of the interface. The hyperlinks take the user to the
relevant VE-Pro module and / or dialog box to complete the tasks associated with that topic. When
multiple Navigators are available, a drop-down selector at the top of the Navigator area allows changing
between Navigators.
Note: you can increase the size (vertically and horizontally) of this area by dragging the borders
between the workflows area and its surrounding areas.

Each task line in the navigator will have up to three buttons shown to the right:
-

? provides a link to help files directly related to that task line

Notes icon when selected a notes field will appear below, which allows the user to input specific
notes related to that task for documentation purposes or to share with other team members

Check box provides users the ability to select and check that task as complete. This can be
important for personal or team tracking on a large or complex project.

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Some Navigator entries can be collapsed / expanded to show a number of sub-actions. These lines
contain a circle on the left which can be clicked.
Some Navigator entries are dependent on previous actions having been completed. These actions
will remain greyed out until the pre-requisites have been checked as completed.
Small icons at the top of the Navigator display allow the Navigator to printed or copied to clipboard.
These print-outs or copies will contain the Notes information and checkmark information, allow
convenient project tracking.
If a Navigator entry results in a VE action or module change, the mouse cursor will change shape when it
is positioned over the navigator entry, and the navigator line will turn blue. Other navigator entries serve
as reminders / prompts, and the cursor will not change when hovering over these items. These items will
not launch actions when clicked, but can be used to check actions or record notes.
Most modules within VE-Pro have their own User Guide, which can be accessed from the Help -> User
Guides menu entry. The following modules will be used in the Green Mark Navigator:

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ModelIT [default starting view] Used to draw or import Model Geometry, defining zones,
windows, etc.

Singapore Compliance used to configure model / zone activities, room types, initiate
simulations etc.

ApacheHVAC used to configure the HVAC network

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2 Setup
2.1 Workflow concept
The Green Mark navigator assists the user through the Green Mark validation process. It aims to assist
the user with automated steps and reminders throughout their project.
The general workflow centred around the navigator involves the following steps:
1. Model, configure, and analyse the Real Model (also sometimes referred to as the Actual model). This
is the building as designed and as it will be constructed. All actions up to the Compliance models
section is aimed at developing the Real Model.
2. When satisfied with the Real Model, the Compliance models section of the navigator assists with the
construction of the Proposed and Reference model variants. The Proposed model is based on the real
model, whereas the Reference (or Baseline) model is based on the same geometry, but is customised
as per Green Mark regulation requirements.
3. The Simulation workflow steps will analyse and compare the Proposed and Reference models.
4. Part 0, Part 1 and the Appendices workflow sections assist with the credit data for the Proposed (and,
where appropriate, Reference) models.

2.2 Location / weather file

Selecting this item launches the ApLocate sub-program, from which the user sets the location of the
model, external design conditions, and the appropriate weather data.
In the dialog shown by the navigator action, use the Selection Wizard to walk through the required
steps. Ensure that the resulting weather file derived from the location is appropriate for Singapore. Note
that Singapore can be found in the Australasia/Pacific region within ApLocate.

2.3 Import baseline files

This command imports a selection of Singapore / Green Mark baseline data. This data is required for a
number of Green Mark actions, but also provide the user with a convenient selection of data from which
to derive their own settings.
Upon selecting this item, the user is prompted to select the appropriate Baseline file data set. The
appropriate location is pre-configured. The user should open the GreenMark.mit data file.
Once the file is loaded, a selection of baseline data is imported.
This includes Green Mark appropriate profiles for Internal Loads
(Lighting, Equipment) and Occupancy. The Construction Database
(CDB) will also be seeded with a number of constructions and
materials appropriate for the Singapore location. Default HVAC and
ApacheSystems data is loaded, ready for user customization.
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This item must be checked as completed to unlock further actions in the navigator.

2.4 Building Geometry

This section of the navigator allows the creation of the building model using the ModelIT module in the
<Virtual Environment>.
Please see the appropriate modelling user guides in the Help section for more information on ModelIT.
Additional guidance is also available using the Navigators in the Geometry section of the Navigator
selection drop-down.

2.4.1 Enter modelling mode

This navigator action switches the current active module to ModelIT, which is the <Virtual Environment>
building creation module.

2.4.2 Settings
2.4.2.1

Locks

Locks allow the user to snap the drawing tool to various items in the model view window such as model
endpoint, midpoint, grid, etc. When creating model geometry it is useful to have the lock window open so
you can switch different locks on and off depending on the particular modelling task you are trying
perform.
2.4.2.2

Grid

Snapping to the grid when building model geometry ensures the creation of an accurate compact model
which enhances accuracy and performance later in the analysis. This option allows the distance between
grid points to be set - in both the x and y direction. Checking the grid box in the locks menu will force the
drawing tool to snap to the grid. In general it is recommended to use a grid separation distance of 4
inches (0.1m).
2.4.2.3

Inner volumes

This option allows you to add or remove inner volumes from your model.
Inner volumes are used to take account of the thickness of walls, ceilings and floors. The thickness of the
walls will be defined later in the Apache Constructions Database. The thickness of the wall is represented
in the model by a grey line which is offset into the room by the thickness of the wall. Inner volumes are
only suitable for use in models with relatively simple geometry.
2.4.2.4

Adjacency separation distance

This command opens the model settings window. Adjacency separation distance defines the maximum
distance that two surfaces can be away from each other, while still being recognized by the software as
being adjacent.

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This setting is particularly important when modelling a building using thick-wall configuration, as placing
two walls further apart than the adjacency separation distance means they will not be considered
adjacent, and hence are likely to become external rather than internal walls. Alternative, if set too wide,
it can cause two adjoining external walls to be seen as adjacent and hence modelled as an internal wall.

2.4.3 Input Options

Zoning
Zoning is of critical importance to the model. Too many zones and the model becomes over complex, too
few and detail is lost. Although the main focus should be on capturing core functional spaces e.g. offices
in commercial buildings or living rooms, bedrooms etc. in residential buildings - it is also necessary to
capture the area/volume of other miscellaneous/ancillary spaces such as elevator shafts, toilets, stairs
etc.
The single most important aspect to note in relation to these space types is that they do not have to be
represented exactly and individually to effectively convey the energy consumption of the building. In
other words it is not necessary to model each and every space separately but instead zones can be
outlined around each of these space types that capture all of a space type together.
Each zone should represent a single activity or zone purpose. During the configuration of the Proposed
model, you will be assigning a room type (or activity) to each zone. You can also do this during the Real
model phase using the Building Template Manager, Building Regulations grid:

2.4.3.1

Manually Extrude Rooms / Zones

Click the draw extruded shape button and the shape settings window will open. Set the height of the
room and what plane the room sits on. You can name the room here or you can choose to name the room
later by right clicking on it in the room list in the side bar. Draw the outline of a room by clicking on points
in the model view window to define the room vertices. It is important to snap to the grid.

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2.4.3.2

Import DXF & Manually Extrude

When importing a dxf it is important to select the correct scale factor. The drawing will appear in grey in
the model view window and will sit behind the model. Use this to as a guide in which to trace your rooms
over while snapping to the grid at all times.
2.4.3.3

Import GBXML (Revit, ArchiCAD etc.)

This hyperlink offers an alternative to manually building a model within the <VE> ModelIT module. It
allows a .GBXML file to be imported from another CAD platform such as ArchiCAD, Revit or other.
2.4.3.4

Model Settings

The model setting window allows you to change the adjacency separation distance, vertical-horizontal
element transition angle and perform model checks.
Vertical-Horizontal Element Transition angle define at what angle a wall becomes a ceiling or a floor. By
default, if a surface is at an angle less than 60 it is recognized by the software as a ceiling or floor.
For Green Mark, it is recommended to set this to a value of 70 to comply with ETTV calculation tables.
The model check option allows you to perform a check on the quality/integrity of the geometry in your
model. Check the boxes for intersections and surfaces and click the check button. A text file will be
created which will flag up any error in your model geometry. It is recommended to perform model check
regularly throughout the model building process. It is usually far easier to fix a geometry problem soon
after it occurs rather than at the end.
Clicking the rebuild button refreshes all the adjacencies in the model.

2.5 Site Obstructions and Shading

The <VE> contains powerful solar analysis capabilities, including ETTV analysis using simulated solar and
shadow projection data. This section of the navigator prompts the user to create both local (on-building)
shading devices as well as surrounding external shading objects. Both local external shades and
topographical shades will be used in the ETTV calculation for the proposed building.

2.5.1 Set selected zones to obstructions

Select all appropriate zones that you wish to configure as obstructions prior to selecting this action
This Navigator action shows a dialog which changes the selected zones to one of the following room
types:

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Room

Adjacent Building

Topographical Shade

Local Shade

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2.6 Building Orientation

This option allows the orientation of the building to be set. The arrow points in the direction of north and
adjusts when a value is entered on the input line (default position = pointing straight up). A
corresponding North-pointing arrow is always visible on the Main Toolbar.

2.7 Room grouping (GM)

An optional step in the Navigator, but recommended for
working with larger models and for HVAC.
The Room browser below the navigator allows the grouping
of rooms in categories. These categories can be created
manually, or various pre-configured categories can be
selected using the Room Group Creator entry in the main
<VE> menu bar.
Using the first icon in the Room Browser window you can
add and remove room schemes, and control the grouping
within each scheme. Using the second button, you can assign the currently selected zone(s) to the active
scheme / group. You can switch room group schemes using the drop-down selector.
For ease of room assignment to Multiplexes in HVAC, it is recommended that rooms be grouped together
in an HVAC grouping scheme. A multiplex can then be assigned to a room group, automatically
associating all rooms in the room group to the multiplex.

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3 Thermal envelope
3.1 Create constructions
Selecting this Navigator action opens the ApCDB, or Construction Database, dialog:

If you have previously imported the Green Mark baseline files, a number of constructions will be shown
which are targeted at the Singapore / Green Mark environment. It is also possible to create new
constructions, or modify existing ones to suit the material selection for the current project.
It is also possible to manually import constructions from the System Construction database that ships with
the <VE>. This database can be opened using the View -> System Constructions menu entry. Right-click
the required construction and select Copy Construction. This will copy the system construction into the
project.
Edit an existing project construction by double-clicking the line you wish to edit. You can change the
layers of a construction, as well as the materials (and material properties) for each layer.

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3.2 Assign constructions

This navigator command shows the Assign Constructions dialog, which allows the assignment of CDB
constructions to the currently selected zones. It is therefore required that the required zones are
selected prior to invoking this command.
Within the Assign Constructions dialog, select the category you wish to assign in the top list, select the
construction to replace in the middle list (all active instances of the construction will be shown in the
model view to the left), and select the new construction to use in the bottom list. Press the Replace
button to assign the new construction.

For more guidance in using the Constructions Database please see the Constructions Database user guide.

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4 Ap Systems
ApacheSystems are simplified Heating/Cooling systems available within the <VE>. For the Green Mark
navigator, it is required to configure an ApacheSystem for DHW purposes, as well as to provide
supplementary information to the ApHVAC module.
Each HVAC network / HVAC System in the model is required to have a corresponding ApSystem. An
ApSystem is also required for zones that are to be mechanically or naturally vented.

4.1 Hot water systems

This Navigator action opens the Apache Systems dialog. Any number of Apache Systems may be defined
using the Add / Remove buttons at the top of the dialog.
An Apache System is named using the Name edit field. To assign the new name, re-select the system you
are naming, and the new name is automatically applied.
The name of an Apache System should be of the following form:
<prefix>=<description>, where

<prefix> is a short combination of letters of numbers which should also be added to the start of
the description of the matching (paired) HVAC network. (See section 7.2, naming HVAC systems)

= is an equals sign

<description> is a description of the Heating/Cooling system

4.2 Ventilation approach (CMM)

For each Apache System, the cooling/ventilation strategy must be configured in the Cooling tab. This
setting determines whether a room is considered conditioned, mechanically ventilated, or naturally
ventilated, and thus evaluated in the relevant credit analysis.

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5 Activities
This section of the navigator covers the use of the Building Template Manager (BTM). A full user guide on
the Building Template Manager is available from the Help -> User Guides.
Building Templates are not mandatory, but can save significant time by applying a large number of
settings to a number of rooms at once. Most template settings can be overridden on a per-room basis by
unticking the Template setting in the appropriate Room Data dialogs (accessed from toolbar in
Singapore compliance module, Room Query button).

5.1 Open Template Manager to set up templates

This link opens up the Building Template Manager (there is a corresponding button on the Main Toolbar).
You can create new templates from scratch, or copy/modify existing templates. Once you have created
the Proposed Building (and assigned some room activities), the list of Templates will be extended with
Green Mark regulation templates, which cannot be modified, but can be used as a starting point for
deriving your own templates from.
Once you have created a Template, it can be assigned to the currently selected zones within GM
Compliance Mode (Singapore compliance module) using the appropriate toolbar icon:

5.2 Import templates

Templates can be imported from other projects. After import they can be customized or used as is.

5.3 Create model templates:

5.3.1 Set building type and Set room type
On the Thermal Conditions template UI (the default template type), you will find a grid where you can
specify the room and building type:

Double-click a grid cell in order to select from the possible values for that cell. Once you assign a room
activity / building type to a Template, assigning that Thermal template to a room automatically sets the
room activity and Building Type for that room in the Proposed and Reference models. This setting can
also be overridden on a per-room basis within the Singapore Compliance module.

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5.3.2 Receptacle, People and Lighting loads

Within your template it is possible to set up Internal Gain loads. Most loads will operate on a Variation
Profile basis. By Importing Baseline files at the start of the navigator, a number of pre-defined Profiles
will be made available. Additional Profiles can be created using the Apache Profiles Database button in
the Template Manager.

5.3.3 Other end uses

Not all end-uses can be configured in the Building Template Manager. Several loads, such as lifts /
escalators, are specified as part of the credit calculation steps (in the case of lifts / escalators, for example,
the appropriate data entry is done in NRB 1-9 steps).
Energy saving devices can also be defined as part of the NRB 1-10 steps.
Exterior Lighting analysis (part of NRB 1-6 navigator section) requires the internal lighting gains to be
configured.

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6 Natvent designs
MacroFlo is a program for analysing infiltration and natural ventilation in buildings. It uses a zonal airflow
model to calculate bulk air movement in and through the building, driven by wind and buoyancy induced
pressures. Details of the methods used in MacroFlo may be found in the MacroFlo Calculation Methods
manual. MacroFlo is invoked as an adjunct to Apache Simulation, as described in the Apache User Guide.
The preparation of MacroFlo input data in the MacroFlo view consists of setting the air flow
characteristics of openings in the building (windows, doors and holes). Once these MacroFlo types have
been assigned to openings, they can be included in the simulation.
A full user guide on MacroFlo is available from the Help -> User Guides.

6.1 Set up MacroFlo opening types

Opens the MacroFlo settings dialog.

6.2 Assign types to windows / doors

Allows the assignment of MacroFlo opening types to the model. It operates on the currently selected
rooms. If no rooms have been selected, an error message is shown.

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7 ApHVAC systems
This navigator category consists of a number of sub-categories and tasks designed to guide users through
the process of setting up the actual building HVAC system.

7.1 Import system prototypes

The Green Mark baseline data provides a number of pre-defined HVAC networks which are to be used for
Green Mark HVAC modelling.

7.1.1 Enter HVAC mode

This action switches the software to the ApHVAC module, loads the Actual network file (GMactual.asp),
and opens the Import Prototype System dialog. The user can re-open this dialog at any time whilst in the
HVAC module by clicking the Import from library button on the HVAC toolbar.
In the Import Systems dialog, select the Green Mark library, and identify which system is suitable for your
design. Once the system type is identified select & import the system(s) on to the ApHVAC work space. A
number of system loops may need to be imported depending on the system design in question. Prototype
systems can be imported in a vertical or horizontal placement. The auto placement automatically arranges
HVAC systems in a tidy fashion on the work space.

7.2 Name systems

Double-click the grey title bar to name your HVAC network. The naming scheme is similar to the Ap
Systems naming scheme:
<prefix>=<description>, where

<prefix> is the same prefix assigned to the corresponding Ap System.

= is an equals sign

<description> is a description of the Heating/Cooling loop.

7.3 Assign spaces

Rooms / zones must be assigned to the ApHVAC networks. The easiest way to do this is through the use of
room groups, which would have been created prior to switching to HVAC mode. Double clicking the
Multiplex & using the Assign from room group icon allows groups of rooms to be assigned to the
selected ApHVAC network.

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7.4 Edit boilers / chillers / heat recovery devices / fans

Please see the HVAC user manual for further details

7.5 System schedules

Set ApHVAC system operation schedules. Indicate the occupied and unoccupied hours and the associated
heating and cooling set points. The morning start-up and after-hours operation are in relation to the
occupied hours. Select the appropriate control strategy for operation using setback temperatures during
the unoccupied hours. These settings will apply to all ApacheHVAC systems for this project that use the
default control (HVAC HP1, HP2, CP3, CP6, etc.) profiles referenced in the prototype system controllers.
Any number of additional HVAC schedules can be created to match any building system operation
schedule or set point where zones may have different requirements. This is done by entering a Prefix
refer in the dialogue & clicking the generate alternative schedule & set points. For example if a prefix
refer of 0823 is entered & generate is clicked a copy of the default HVAC control profiles will be created
in ApPro with prefix of 0823 at the start of all control profiles.
Alternative profiles can be selected for global assignment via the schedule & set point dropdown at the
top of the schedule dialogue, the Apply set point & plant profiles tick box must be activated for
assignment to happen once the OK is clicked in the main dialogue. If a model uses varying operation
schedules these profiles must be assigned manually to ApHVAC systems in later workflows.
Advanced schedules can also be setup via the Configure tab in the main dialogue this feature allows
users to setup more detailed system schedules.

7.6 Plant sizing (option):

7.6.1 Room Load Calculations
This navigator step automatically opens up the ApacheLoads dialog with default information applied. The
user can edit the information relating to the actual model.
As with a normal ApacheLoads run this will generate information relating to room heating and cooling
loads. This information is then used to populate the default PRM sizing sheets located in the Loads Data
folder of the project directory. This will generate flow rate data for use in the actual HVAC network.
This step must be checked as completed before the next step is unlocked.

7.6.2 Assign Room Sizing Data

This step automatically assigns the sizing data generated from the step above to the HVAC network.

7.6.3 System Load Calculations

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This navigator step opens up the ApacheLoads dialog again, this time an ApacheHVAC network is assigned
in order to enable a system sizing calculation. The HVAC network in the file GMActual.asp will be used.
This will provide information to size various system elements i.e. fan and coil data.

7.6.4 Update fan and coil sizing data

This step automatically assigns the sizing data generated from the step above to the actual HVAC
network.

7.7 Configure fan pressure drops

The Green Mark navigator will use the ASHRAE 90.1 fan power calculation as part of its HVAC evaluation.
This navigator entry allows the entry of parameters to this calculation as per Table 6.5.3.1.1B. If no
changes are required, the default values can simply be confirmed.

7.8 Validate proxy ApSystems against ApHVAC

This action will confirm that the prefixes assigned to Ap Systems and ApHVAC networks are a match and
can be resolved. Please see sections 4.1 and 7.2 for more information on naming Ap Systems and
ApHVAC networks.

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8 Renewables
There are three types of renewable systems available:

PVS Generator

Wind Power

Solar thermal (hot water)

See Apache Sim User Guide for more information on renewables.

8.1 Open dialog (PVs and Wind)

Opens the Renewables dialog where PV and Wind generator renewables can be specified.

8.2 Solar thermal

Opens the Ap Systems dialog, where the Solar water heating tab can be used to specify details of the Solar
thermal system.

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9 Compliance models
This section of the navigator assists with the creation of the Green Mark Proposed and Reference
(Baseline) model variants.
It is recommended that you complete your configuration of your Actual
building before starting this section to reduce the need for refreshing your Proposed and Reference
buildings with changes from the Actual.

9.1 Enter GM compliance mode

This Navigator action switches the VE to the Singapore Compliance module. Within this module you can
create / configure / examine your model variants (Actual, Proposed and Reference).
The toolbar at the top of the module View allows the switching between the different variants.
The section at the bottom of the view is only active when the Proposed building is the active building.
When no rooms are selected, the Building Type selection drop-down allows the setting of the default
building type. Any rooms not assigned a Thermal Template with a Room Activity will receive the default
Activity for the selected building type. When one or more rooms are selected, the assigned Room
Activity can be set for those rooms using the Building Type / Room Activity selection drop-downs.

9.2 Proposed model:

9.2.1 Create/refresh proposed model from real model
This action derives a Proposed model variant from the Actual model. The geometry of the two buildings
is kept the same, but the following changes are automatically applied:

CDB internal shading devices (blinds, shades, recesses) are turned off

Internal gains are configured from Green Mark baseline templates, except for lighting gain, where
the lighting power is as Actual.

Fresh air rates from Green Mark baseline templates

Construction surface resistances are checked, and any non-compliant constructions are reported
to the user

9.2.2 Edit substitutions:

9.2.2.1

Activities
Room activities can be assigned through the interface at the bottom of the Singapore Compliance
module View. See section 9.1 for more details.

9.2.2.2

Ventilation / Schedules
In the Proposed model you can use the Room Query (Room Data) dialog to make changes to the
building / room settings. To enter the Room Data dialog, select a room and click the Room Query icon
on the Singapore Compliance View toolbar:

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Note that any changes to the Proposed model may require justification to the BCA when present
during credit calculation.

9.2.3 Pre-requisite checks:

9.2.3.1

SunCast simulation

st

This runs a SunCast analysis on the proposed model. It will automatically use a design day of the 21
of every month, and run a full annual analysis, meaning the results can be re-used during simulation if
desired.

9.2.3.2

ETTV & RTTV

This runs an ETTV and RTTV analysis on the proposed model. A summary dialog will report the
2
outcome of the analysis. An ETTV value greater than 50 W/m will require you to review your opaque
or construction constructions, or reduce your window to wall ratio (reduce glazing).
An RTTV analysis is always calculated for your information, but is only applicable when roof glazing is
used.

9.2.4 Create proposed systems

9.2.4.1

Create/refresh proposed network

For the proposed HVAC network, this creates a duplicate of the network in GMActual.asp, and stores it
in GMProposed.asp.
Depending on model conditions, several alterations may be required for Green Mark compliance:
2
If the total floor area of air-conditioned spaces exceeds 5000 m , a water-cooled chilled water system
should be used for the Proposed building.
Chiller details (in particular, COP) should be verified against SS530.
Any changes that need to be made to the network can be done by opening it in the HVAC module
using the next item in the navigator.

9.2.4.2

Edit in HVAC
This opens the Proposed HVAC network file in the HVAC module, ready for editing.

9.2.5 Plant sizing (option):

9.2.5.1

Room Load Calculations / Assign Room Sizing Data / System Load Calculations / Update fan and
coil sizing data
These perform the same steps as the sizing actions in the Real building navigator section, but for the
proposed configuration. It is not possible to select an HVAC network for the System Load
Calculations, it will always use GMProposed.asp

9.2.5.2

Derive fan powers

Using the data specified earlier in the Fan Pressure Drops dialog, this will update the fan data.

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9.3 Reference model:

9.3.1 Create/refresh reference model from proposed model
This action derives a Reference (Baseline) model variant from the Proposed model. The geometry of the
two buildings is kept the same, but the following additional changes are automatically applied:

All local shading objects are removed

Internal gains are configured from Green Mark baseline templates

Fresh air rates from Green Mark baseline templates

Baseline constructions are applied to all surfaces

9.3.2 Pre-requisites:
9.3.2.1

SunCast simulation
A SunCast analysis is performed on the Reference model. As the reference model may differ from the
Proposed model (shading objects), a separate analysis is required.

9.3.2.2

ETTV: Iterate ETTV & RTTV

An ETTV and RTTV check is performed on the baseline building. RTTV check is applied only when
roof lights are present, otherwise a U-value check is performed on the roof.
Reference building constructions are modified to ensure that the Reference building achieves an ETTV
2
value of 50 W/m . If it is not possible to do so (construction limits exceeded), a warning message will
be displayed, and the model Window-to-Wall ratio will require adjusting.
When the analysis is complete, a dialog will be shown with the final ETTV value for the Reference
Building, and a dialog for either the RTTV or the outcome of the U-value check (as appropriate).

9.3.3 Create baseline systems:

9.3.3.1

Create/refresh baseline network

For the reference HVAC network, this creates a duplicate of the network in GMproposed.asp, and
stores it in GMReference.asp.
Depending on model conditions, several alterations may be required for Green Mark compliance:
2
If the total floor area of air-conditioned spaces exceeds 5000 m , a water-cooled chilled water system
should be selected.
Chiller details (in particular, COP) should be verified against SS530.
Any changes that need to be made to the network can be done by opening it in the HVAC module
using the next item in the navigator.

9.3.3.2

Edit in HVAC
This opens the Reference HVAC network file in the HVAC module, ready for editing.

9.3.3.3 Create & review

Chiller type
DCS option

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9.3.3.4

Sizing:
This section of the navigator performs the same tasks as the Proposed section, but applied to the
Reference model. Again, no network selection is possible at this stage.

9.3.3.5

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Adjust baseline systems to limits:

Pump power
Condensing water pump power
Pump drives
Cooling tower power
Air-con fan power
Mec-vent fan power
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10 Simulation
10.1 Pre-simulations:
10.1.1 Solar
10.1.2 Daylight (option)
If you have access to Radiance, additional daylight dimming energy savings are available using Radiance
sensors.
In Radiance click on the Sensors tab, place sensors in all rooms that will have a daylight dimming control,
then click the Apache button at the bottom of the screen to run the calculation.
Next you want to create a new profile to control the lighting based on the sensed luminance, there is an
example of this in the ApPro User Guide but the variable for sensed luminance is e1 (example formula
profile might be "RAMP(e1,0,1,500,0.3)" so lights would be fully on when there is no light and gradually
reduce to 30% when the sensed illuminance level 500lux is reached). Next this profile needs to be applied
to the lighting internal gain (in the thermal template or room data) as the dimming profile.
When you run the apache simulation make sure the Radiance link is ticked on and you should see the
effect of the dimming reducing lighting gains.
If you do not have a Radiance license, a similar effect can be achieved by approximating the Dimming
Profile based on expected lighting levels, and applying the profile to the internal lighting gain.

10.2 Thermal simulations:

10.2.1 Settings
Ensure that the Proposed building is correctly configured, with all zones having been assigned their
desired activity (including a default Building Type being set).

10.2.2 Simulate compliance models

This navigator action will bring up the Apache Simulation settings dialog. Within this dialog, various
settings can be adjusted. If you select the Simulate button, the Proposed and Reference buildings will be
simulated, with the result file being prefixed with gmp for Proposed, and gmr for Reference building
analysis.

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11 Part 0 - model
The remaining aspects of the Navigator will analyse the Proposed and Reference models, producing
summary reports with model and simulation results. The reports are created in HTML format, but can be
exported as PDF for easy sharing with customers and colleagues.

11.1 Customise report logo

Each report contains a logo at the top of the page. By selecting this navigator action you can select a
suitable image for your reports.

11.2 Point summary

This report contains a table of the Green Mark compliance checks and their corresponding maximum
point values. It also summarizes the requirements for gold, gold+ and platinum certification.

11.3 Cost details / Energy results

The Energy report provides a basic summary of your energy end-uses, in both numerical and graphical
format. This report requires a simulation to have been completed, and will allow you to select which
simulation run you wish to use.
The Energy reports contain a basic cost section. The Cost Details entry allows you to specify pricing
information for your different fuels.
Certain fields in the Energy report will be calculated using different steps in the Navigator. For instance,
the EEI and A/C efficiency values will be calculated in NRB 1-10 and NRB 1-2 respectively.

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12 Part 1 - energy eff. A

12.1 ETTV NRB 1-1
ETTV analysis report, showing a room-by-room and faade-by-faade breakdown of ETTV contributors.

12.2 Air-con system NRB 1-2

NRB 1-2 HVAC report

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13 Part 1 - energy eff. B

13.1 Envelope NRB 1-3
13.2 Natvent / mech-vent NRB 1-4

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14 Part 1 - energy eff. C

14.1 Artificial lighting NRB 1-6
14.1.1 Edit spaces
Use this Navigator entry to specify which rooms have Tenant Lighting provided or not. It is also possible
to exclude rooms from analysis.

14.1.2 Report
14.1.3 Ext lighting
Use this dialog to check the power usage of exterior lighting. The first 3 columns of the grid may be
edited to enter the required data. The data is automatically validated against the interior lighting load for
the Proposed model (which is as Actual by default).

14.2 Car Park Ventilation NRB 1-7

14.2.1 Check room activities set
Ensure that Car Park zones have the appropriate Car Park activity set.

14.2.2 Report

14.3 Common Area Ventilation NRB 1-8

14.3.1 Check room activities set
Ensure that Common Area zones have the appropriate room activity set. Common Area room activities
are:

Toilet

Stairs

Corridor

Lift Lobby

Atrium

14.3.2 Report

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14.4 Lifts NRB 1-9

14.4.1 Check lift data
This dialog allows you to estimate your annual Lift & Escalator usage. Use the + and buttons to insert
and remove rows from the grids.
Once specified, this data will be included in all reports that contain a detailed end-use breakdown, such as
the Part 0 energy report, NRB 1-9 Lifts & Escalator report, and NRB 1-10 Energy Efficiency Features.

14.4.2 Report

14.5 Energy eff. features NRB 1-10

14.5.1 Green walls
This dialog allows you to specify the intended amount of Green Shading on East and West faades.

14.5.2 Energy eff. features

Using this navigator action, you are able to specify additional (non-simulated) energy saving features.
Enable each feature you intend to provide by clicking its check box, then provide the estimated annual
energy saving in the appropriate field.

14.5.3 Report

14.6 Renewables NRB 1-11

14.6.1 Tenant details
14.6.2 Report

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15 Appendices
15.1 Appendix A
15.1.1 Weather data
15.1.2 Model data

15.2 Appendix B: ETTV details

15.3 Appendix C
15.3.1 Report Data
15.3.2 Appendix C: GMIS submission form

15.4 Project Details/Summary

15.4.1 User details
15.4.2 Project details

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