energies

Article
Exploring the Interplay between CAD and FreeFem++
as an Energy Decision-Making Tool for
Architectural Design
Juan Rojas-Fernández 1 , Carmen Galán-Marín 1, * , Carlos Rivera-Gómez 1 and
Enrique D. Fernández-Nieto 2
1 Department of Building Construction, E.T.S. Arquitectura, Universidad de Sevilla, 41012 Seville, Spain;
jmrojas@us.es (J.R.-F.); crivera@us.es (C.R.-G.)
2 Department of Applied Mathematics, E.T.S. Arquitectura, Universidad de Sevilla, 41012 Seville, Spain;
edofer@us.es
* Correspondence: cgalan@us.es; Tel.: +34-954-55-65-91




Received: 17 September 2018; Accepted: 3 October 2018; Published: 7 October 2018


Abstract: The energy modelling software tools commonly used for architectural purposes do not allow
a straightforward real-time implementation within the architectural design programs. In addition,
the surrounding exterior spaces of the building, including the inner courtyards, hardly present
a specific treatment distinguishing these spaces from the general external temperature in the thermal
simulations. This is a clear disadvantage when it comes to streamlining the design process in relation
to the whole-building energy optimization. In this context, the present study aims to demonstrate
the advantages of the FreeFem++ open source program for performing simulations in architectural
environments. These simulations include microclimate tests that describe the interactions between
a building architecture and its local exterior. The great potential of this mathematical tool can be
realized through its complete system integration within CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software
such as SketchUp or AutoCAD. In order to establish the suitability of FreeFem++ for the performance
of simulations, the most widely employed energy simulation tools able to consider a proposed
architectural geometry in a specific environment are compared. On the basis of this analysis,
it can be concluded that FreeFem++ is the only program displaying the best features for the
thermal performance simulation of these specific outdoor spaces, excluding the currently unavailable
easy interaction with architectural drawing programs. The main contribution of this research is,
in fact, the enhancement of FreeFem++ usability by proposing a simple intuitive method for the
creation of building geometries and their respective meshing (pre-processing). FreeFem++ is also
considered a tool for data analysis (post-processing) able to help engineers and architects with
building energy-efficiency-related tasks.

Keywords: energy efficiency; energy modelling software; architectural design tool; outdoor space;
courtyard; FreeFem++; Computer-Aided Design (CAD)

1. Introduction
Energy saving is of increasing concern to the community. The energy efficiency of buildings and
cities is directly related to the preservation of energy resources and the buildings’ or cities’ effects on
climate change due to the use of conventional energy sources. The current need for energy efficiency has
led to the development of increasingly precise tools for energy modelling in buildings. Subsequently,
over the last decade, there has been an enormous growth in the quantity of simulation programs and
in their energy modelling capabilities. These improved tools have been progressively considering

Energies 2018, 11, 2665; doi:10.3390/en11102665 www.mdpi.com/journal/energies

Energies 2018, 11, 2665 2 of 19

a greater number of variables and data that scientists have come to deal with. Undeniably, this has
been triggered to a large extent by the growth in speed and memory capacity of electronic computers.
Numerical simulations now enable us to tackle complex physical problems like never before [1].
Such problems involve the understanding and calculation of atmospheric behaviours. Their complexity
derives from the interaction of factors ranging from fluid mechanics to thermodynamics showing
nonlinear behaviours [2]. The interaction between buildings and atmospheric phenomena produces
microclimates in the nearby environment, characterised by air properties that differ from the outside
average. These properties depend, among other factors, on the buildings’ architecture. This is the
case for monitored courtyards in hot and temperate climates [3], where air temperatures inside the
courtyard are significantly lower than on the exterior during the summer. The physical complexity
of the phenomena and their strong interaction with formal design has prevented their controlled
use in architecture until now. Previous research demonstrates that the architectural design and its
materialization is a key factor in determining how the air within these microclimates behaves in spaces
such as courtyards which can cool the exterior air, especially during the summer [4]. This notion should
encourage architects to focus their designs on the creation, optimization, and best use of microclimates.
Consequently, this stimulates performance-driven architectural design from the beginning, considering
energy aspects besides the traditional factors of form and space [5–7].
In recent years, many governments have been promoting the use of BIM (Building Information
Modelling) as a means of facilitating collaboration and improving delivery efficiency and project
quality [8]. Software suppliers have flooded the market with numerous BIM software packages
dealing with different types of construction information throughout those years. This has led
to end-users facing significant challenges as to which software systems to use, in which type of
construction domains/activities, and how to effectively use the chosen software packages(s) [9,10].
Although the current plug-ins allow energy simulation to be integrated from the beginning of the
design phase through the BIM model [11], the software package used is always located among the
energy modelling systems commonly used. Such modelling tools, as will be discussed below, do
not provide an appropriate solution to the level of thermal simulation accuracy needed to model
small-sized outdoor spaces such as inner courtyards [12].
The main research aim of this paper is to enable integrated software that would significantly
improve building design from the perspective of energy efficiency. Accordingly, the present work
confronts the problem by means of collaboration between mathematicians, engineers, and architects.
This makes more accessible the potentiality of the free code FreeFem++ mathematical tool for the
development of numerical simulations of these microclimates by proposing its integration with
the proper architecture and engineering software. Therefore, to confront the problem, its use and
integration with architectural software (AutoCAD® , SketchUp® , FreeFem++, and ParaView) will
be proposed.

2. Energy Analysis Simulation Tools

As a result of the analysis and calculation complexity, and the need to manage equations defining
the behavior of the fluid mechanics coupled with those equations describing thermodynamical
behaviors, the following 3D numerical model programmes are based on CFD (Computational Fluid
Dynamics) [13]. This branch of fluid mechanics is based on numerical methods and algorithms used
to solve and analyze problems involving fluid flows. The programs most commonly employed to
solve engineering and mathematical physics problems related to heat transfer and fluid flow are
described below.

2.1. ANSYS Fluent

ANSYS Fluent is one of the most widely used tools in engineering based on CFD (Computational
Fluid Dynamics) for finite elements. Originally conceived to model flows (mechanical problems
in fluid dynamics), it is also used today for calculating heat transfers and reactions for industrial
Energies 2018, 11, 2665 3 of 19

applications [14], which means it can be used for energy and climate simulations. Among its strengths
are its capacity for importing files from the main CAD platforms, its calculating power, and its good
visualization of results. However, it is not widely used in architecture due to the high time and effort
costs required to apply it to architectural problems. Another major drawback for researchers is that the
code is inaccessible; this makes it difficult to see how simulation calculations are reached, hindering
understanding of the mathematical description of the process and, therefore, its integral knowledge.

2.2. DesignBuilder
DesignBuilder specializes in energy and environmental simulations for buildings, and it was
designed specifically for architecture and the engineering involved in installations related to it [15].
The Pro version includes a CFD module that can simulate air flows and temperature distributions
in spaces both inside and outside buildings using algorithms equivalent to the CFD programs in
common use (such as Simpler). One of the advantages of this program is its simplicity when handling
these algorithms, enabling the user to configure the geometry and conditions in the environment
with precision. The program achieves this by providing options for easy configuring of conditions
such as surface temperatures, heat flows, and air volumes, based on the results of a simulation with
the EnergyPlus software developed by the U.S. Department of Energy, which we will analyze later.
The program offers simplicity and usability, allowing the user to import files from the CAD and BIM
platforms. Usability is one of this program’s big pluses but, sadly, as in nearly all the cases studied,
it is not an open source tool. Besides this, it does not take into account different outer temperatures for
different transition spaces such as in the case of inner courtyards. DesignBuilder considers a single
homogenous external reference temperature around the building for the calculation of the overall
energy balance of the building and heat balance with the environment in any climate. In fact, in the
DesignBuilder manual, courtyards are specifically mentioned (Section 3.2 and 10.4 in the manual) to
indicate how to create them and are specified as exterior, not as a different outside zone.

2.3. Revit Autodesk (Formerly Ecotect Analysis)

Another program widely used by architects in energy simulation and analysis is Revit Autodesk,
formerly called Ecotect Analysis. This tool allows the user to study different energy behaviors in
buildings, including analysis of solar radiation, natural lighting, water consumption, and sound
propagation [16]. One of the advantages is that the user can import three-dimensional geometries from
specific design programs such as AutoCAD, Revit, or SketchUp, as well as from the architect’s own
design model.
It also includes a study model for exterior urban spaces to pinpoint a building’s best orientation for
maximum sunlight exposure. However, the program’s climate study is inadequate for determining the
condition of the specific exterior spaces we want to examine. The Sky View Factor parameters together
with the incident and reflected radiation are important aspects of an energy study of these spaces but
are insufficient for simulating their behavior in detail. Thermodynamic phenomena like stratification
and convection, as well as fluid dynamics such as flow patterns, are also essential, thus making it
necessary to carry out a CFD simulation which this program cannot perform. This limitation is due to
the fact that Revit focuses more on a building’s interior energy conditions than on those of the exterior
space [17]. It is not an open source code program, and as previously mentioned, this means that they
do not allow us to understand the internal calculation processes of the physical phenomena.

2.4. SUNtool, Solene, RayMan, URSOS, and GreenCanyon.

Other programs have been developed by institutional research teams to perform energy behavior
calculations from different perspectives. These include SUNtool [18], Solene [19], and RayMan [20],
all of which have good graphical interfaces that enable the geometry to be entered intuitively. SUNtool
is compatible with the main CAD design software programs such as AutoCAD, ArchiCAD, SketchUp,
and Rhino. These energy simulation programs tackle the problem by focusing on radiation calculations
Energies 2018, 11, 2665 4 of 19

and their thermal consequences. This simplification is insufficient if the researcher wishes to study
the microclimate and the air behavior in specific exterior spaces. Although they are not commercial
programs, neither are they open source coded.
This is also the case with other programs such as URSOS [21] and GreenCanyon [2], which are
research oriented. Although they can consider more factors than just radiation, including those derived
from CFD-based characterizations, they are also closed source. What is more, SUNtool is still not
generally available to the public, which hinders scientific debate.

2.5. EnergyPlus
An example of a widely used noncommercial open source calculation tool is EnergyPlus which can
be downloaded free from the official web page of the U.S. Department of Energy [22]. This program
also provides the calculation engine for other commercial programs such as DesignBuilder. It is
a wide-reaching program for use by architects, engineers, and researchers that enables energy
simulations for buildings which can help optimize the design and reduce water consumption. It models
systems of heating, refrigeration, lighting, ventilation, and other energy flows and water usages.
To make it easier to use, the web page provides a plugin that allows simulations with EnergyPlus using
SketchUp. We have already mentioned how other programs have tried to be compatible with this 3D
design tool, and there are two main reasons for this: the basic version is free and is highly intuitive,
making it quick and easy to construct any size or volume. Its considerable power and flexibility make
EnergyPlus one of the best tools for energy simulations in buildings, but it does not take into account
energy simulations for exterior spaces.

2.6. ENVI-Met 3.1

Among the calculation tools made specifically to simulate exterior spaces or microclimates of
urban spaces is ENVI-met 3.1, which is currently being used by several researchers in this field due to
its reliable results [23]. The program was created by Michael Bruse (Institute of Geography, Department
of Geoinformatics, Environmental Modeling Group, University of Mainz) to simulate the interaction
between surfaces, floors, and air in an urban setting based on fluid dynamic and thermodynamic
models [24]. It enables the calculation of various exterior space parameters such as air quality and
thermal comfort, for which it only requires the geometry and climate data that can be gathered from
any nearby meteorological station. There was also a timely investigation by X. Yang, L. Zhao, M. Bruse,
and Q. Meng [25] that links ENVI-met 3.1’s capacity to simulate climate conditions in urban spaces
with EnergyPlus’s ability to provide energy simulations of a building’s interior.
The scientific study of the complex microclimate behavior of specific spaces such as patios requires
a full understanding of the physical processes involved and the mathematics used to describe these
processes, as well as the numerical treatment applied to simulate them. This cannot be done using
closed source programs as they block access to the mathematical model on which their calculations are
based. Furthermore, ENVI-met does not provide sufficiently accurate simulations of the temperature
of small-sized outdoor spaces, as in the case of inner courtyards [12]. Only by using open source
programs with free calculation tools can researchers generate a transparent program that enables
an understanding of its mathematical processes and the physical phenomena described.

2.7. FreeFem++
To carry out numerical simulations, use of the FreeFem++ programming language and free
software as a calculation engine is proposed. It is not a program made specifically for studying
microclimates; rather it is an open computer language for performing any kind of simulation based on
numerical models via the finite element method. In principle, this program is not easy to use beyond
research parameters, so the goal of this research is to increase its usability for introducing data into the
simulation, or pre-processing, and the subsequent analysis, or post-processing.
Energies 2018, 11, 2665 5 of 19

FreeFem++ is especially useful for researchers because it combines considerable calculating

power with flexibility and the transparency of its open source code. As a result, it has given rise to
an internet community of developers of the program who tend to be researchers working on numerical
simulations [26,27]. One of the big advantages of FreeFem++ is that it can be used as a high-level
programming language based on C++, enabling combinations of high-level FreeFem++ commands
with C++ commands to develop one’s own codes. This offers considerable flexibility for developing
simulation codes which in many cases cannot be done with commercial codes. In addition, FreeFem++
commands allow compact programming of different methods with finite elements regardless of the
study problem, which means that it is highly versatile and eminently suitable for tackling problems
involving thermodynamics and fluid mechanics [27].
The software is also often used in research for pre- and post-processing simulations. Nevertheless,
suppling geometric data to the models requires the user to write lines of code using the FreeFem++
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 Salome is an open source platform under the LGPL (Lesser General Public License) for the pre-
and post-processing of numerical simulations. It enables geometries to be built in a user-friendly
CAD environment that facilitates the construction of volumes in 3D and is quick and easy to learn.
The program can be downloaded and information and support accessed from the official website [31].
The program
Energies promises speedy and intuitive pre-processing compatible with various calculation
2018, 11, 2665 7 of 19
engines. It can mesh a given volume by considering different hypotheses and algorithms (hexahedron,
tetrahedron, Netgen 1D-2D-3D, etc.). Submeshes can be created as well as groups and subgroups
from these. The
from these. Theresult
resultisisaa3D
3Dmesh
meshthat
thatisisseemingly
seemingly accurate,
accurate, butbut
itsits usability
usability is undermined
is undermined by byan
an excessively diffuse process for entering data. For the scientific user this probably
excessively diffuse process for entering data. For the scientific user this probably leads to greater leads to greater
control
control over
over the
the process,
process, but
but for
for the
the professional
professional itit is
is an
an impediment
impediment (Figure
(Figure 2).
2).

Figure 2. 3D
Figure 2. 3D geometries.
geometries. An
An example
example from
from the
the current investigation.
current investigation.

Once the pre-processing

pre-processing is complete,
complete, we we need
need to find a method method for transferring
transferring the results to
FreeFem++. The
FreeFem++. Thenatural
naturalformat
format ofof
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Salome
Salome files hashas
files an an
*.hdf extension
*.hdf extensionandandthose for the
those for output files
the output
for the
files geometries
for can be *.brep,
the geometries can be*.iges,
*.brep,*.igs, *.step,
*.iges, *.stp,
*.igs, *.stl, *.sat,
*.step, *.stp,or*.stl,
*.vtk.*.sat,
The meshing
or *.vtk. output formats
The meshing
have theformats
output following
have extensions: *.med,
the following *.unv, *.stl,*.med,
extensions: *.sauv,*.unv,
*.gmf,*.stl,
or *.dat.
*.sauv,None of these
*.gmf, meshing
or *.dat. Nonefile
of
formats
these can be file
meshing imported
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directly geometries and
to FreeFem++, butmeshes generated
the geometries andin meshes
Salome
can be transferred
generated in Salome indirectly to FreeFem++
can be transferred by using
indirectly the GMESHby
to FreeFem++ program
using theas GMESH
a bridge,program
as shownasin a
Figure 3.as shown in Figure 3.
bridge,
The first step is to export the file from Salome in a *.brep geometry format, which can be imported
from GMESH [32]. GMESH also allows us to do the meshing, which can be saved in files with the
*.mesh extension format. These file formats can be read by FreeFem*++, as explained later. We can
also do the meshing in Salome, which requires exporting the mesh as a *.unv file extension. This file
format can be read by GMESH and from here, as in the previous case, saved as *.mesh, which can
be read by FreeFem++. Moreover, GMESH may allow the user to generate 3D geometries in a CAD
environment as well as the complete meshing of the volume, rendering it unnecessary to use Salome
to carry out the same function. Salome has other inconveniences such as excessive size and demand
on resources, and difficulties in the tag exporting process. Moreover, its usability is not as advanced as
 imported from GMESH [32]. GMESH also allows us to do the meshing, which can be saved in files
with the *.mesh extension format. These file formats can be read by FreeFem*++, as explained later.
We can also do the meshing in Salome, which requires exporting the mesh as a *.unv file extension.
This file format can be read by GMESH and from here, as in the previous case, saved as *.mesh, which
can be read by FreeFem++. Moreover, GMESH may allow the user to generate 3D geometries in a
EnergiesCAD 11, 2665
2018,environment as well as the complete meshing of the volume, rendering it unnecessary to use8 of 19
Salome to carry out the same function. Salome has other inconveniences such as excessive size and
demand on resources, and difficulties in the tag exporting process. Moreover, its usability is not as
in theadvanced
CAD programs
as in thedesigned specifically
CAD programs for drawing.
designed specificallyThus, the GMESH
for drawing. Thus,program wasprogram
the GMESH analyzed in
greater detail to assess its viability as a tool to solve the problem proposed.
was analyzed in greater detail to assess its viability as a tool to solve the problem proposed.

Figure 3. Diagram
Figure of of
3. Diagram the interaction
the interactionbetween Salomeand
between Salome andFreeFem++.
FreeFem++.

3.2. GMESH Analysis

3.2. GMESH Analysis
The GMESH
The GMESH software
softwarehashas
a strong
a strongmeshing
meshingcapacity thatincorporates
capacity that incorporates a calculation
a calculation engine
engine and and
pre- and
pre-post-processes
and post-processes [33].[33].
It enables the the
It enables user to erect
user to erectgeometries
geometries inina aCAD
CADenvironment,
environment, and and its aim,
aim, according
according to thewebsite,
to the official official website, is to provide
is to provide a tool athat
toolis
that is fast,
fast, light,
light, andand easy
easy to to use
use formeshing
for meshingwith
inputswith inputs of parametric
of parametric objects and objects and advanced
advanced visualization
visualization capabilities.
capabilities. It allows
It allows its mesh
its mesh to be to be
exported
in *.mesh, which can be read by FreeFem++. The GMESH and FreeFem++ integration is perfect, is
exported in *.mesh, which can be read by FreeFem++. The GMESH and FreeFem++ integration as the
perfect, as the experiences of FreeFem++ community members demonstrate.
experiences of FreeFem++ community members demonstrate.
In the example shown in Figure 4a, meshing was done with Salome and exported using the *.unv
In the example shown in Figure 4a, meshing was done with Salome and exported using the
format. Then, this file was imported into GMESH and the mesh was able to be opened without any
*.unv problem
format. (Figure
Then, this file was
4). Then, the imported
mesh wasinto GMESH
exported fromand the mesh
GMESH was able
as *.mesh (for toexample,
be opened
without any problem (Figure 4). Then, the mesh was exported from GMESH
“Room3d.mesh”). It is important not to confuse the *.mesh export file with the natural format saved as *.mesh (for example,
“Room3d.mesh”).
by GMESH which It is important
is *.msh, asnot to confuse
FreeFem++ theopen
cannot *.mesh export
this. It can file with thethat
be observed natural formatreads
FreeFem++ saved by
GMESH the which
mesh inis*.mesh
*.msh,generated
as FreeFem++by Salomecannot open
(Figure 4b).this. It can be observed that FreeFem++ reads the
mesh in *.mesh generated by Salome (Figure 4b).
Energies 2018, 11, x 9 of 20

(a) (b)
Figure 4. Mesh
Figure exported
4. Mesh from from
exported GMESH to FreeFem++,
GMESH (a) general
to FreeFem++, meshmesh
(a) general and (b)
andvolume withwith
(b) volume windows.
windows.
Energies 2018, 11, 2665 9 of 19

4. Computer-Aided Design Programs

The most efficient way to erect three-dimensional models for buildings is to use the drawing
and 3D CAD programs most commonly applied in architecture. The two most widely used assisted
drawing tools on the market for 3D constructions are AutoCAD® and SketchUp® . AutoCAD is the
main commercial CAD program for computer-assisted design but SketchUp is becoming the preferred
program of use for quick and intuitive geometric 3D constructions as its basic version is free. Both are
standard tools in architecture and engineering faculties.

4.1. AutoCAD
The Autodesk program is widely used in universities and architectural and engineering companies
in many countries. Its official website offers ample information on the program’s features and
a downloadable test version [16]. Thanks to the utility of the IGES format, AutoCAD exports directly
to IGES, although this option does not appear by default in the export dialogue box and you have to
open particular submenus to find this option.

4.2. SketchUp
Although the AutoCAD program is the most popular, it has two major drawbacks that led us
to search for possible alternatives. Despite the fact that the program is made specifically for CAD
drawing, constructing three-dimensional volumes with this tool is not fast or intuitive. It is difficult to
outline a volume and modify the finished geometry quickly. By contrast, AutoCAD offers considerable
accuracy, and final projects are normally drawn up using this program.
However, the nature of the study in this investigation does not require mathematical precision.
What is important is that the architectural spaces and their microclimate features are not affected
by alterations in millimeters to their dimensions since the details of the architecture and the spaces
are normally defined in centimeters. A meshing that generates a mesh of 10 cm to 30 cm is usually
sufficient for the dimensional accuracy needed. What is more important is the speed at which 3D
models can be constructed, an area in which AutoCAD is lacking. To solve the problem at the heart
of this research requires constant experimentation with various geometries that can be quickly put
together, thus enabling comparisons and decision-making on its formal design. Another drawback of
AutoCAD is that this commercial program is quite expensive.
A good alternative is the much-used program for constructing 3D objects, SketchUp. It is simple
and fast, the models can be easily modified, and the SketchUp Make basic version is free. Information
about the program can be found on the official website, where it is also available for download [34].
Thus, the idea is to use SketchUp to build geometries quickly and simply and then export them in the
IGES format, which GMESH can read, and continue the method proposed above. The SketchUp Make
export options do not include exporting in IGES format, but the SketchUp community on the Internet
has developed a plugin that enables this [35]. The “iges_export.rb” export file is copied into the Tools
folder of SketchUp in the program files. The option to export the solid is found in the program tools’
submenu under the name “IGES export”.

4.3. ParaView
To improve the presentation and analysis of the results (post-processing), another program
designed specifically for this task it is also considered: ParaView. This is an open source multiplatform
tool for data analysis and visualization applications developed by the Los Alamos National Laboratory
of the U.S. Department of Energy in collaboration with Kitware Inc. [36]. After performing the
simulation calculation process in FreeFem++, the results can be exported from FreeFem++ to a VTK
library (whose files have extension *.vtk) and read by ParaView, which provides the user with ample
scope to analyze the data [37].
Energies 2018, 11, 2665 10 of 19

Energies 2018, 11, x 11 of 20

5. Proposed Plug-In Procedure
5. Proposed
Based onPlug-In
what hasProcedure
been described so far, a specific tool for each part of the simulation (pre-process,
process, and post-process)
Based on what has beenfor the execution
described so of this
far, methodtool
a specific is proposed. For constructing
for each part the geometry,
of the simulation (pre-
the programs
process, for drawing,
process, design, and
and post-process) 3D execution
for the construction most
of this widely
method used among
is proposed. Fortechnicians,
constructingand
the for
geometry,
the meshing,the programs
GMESH. Thefor drawing, is
pre-process design, and 3Dofconstruction
the building the geometry most
andwidely used among
the meshing. For the
technicians, and
process—the for the
nucleus of meshing, GMESH.
the calculation of The pre-processsimulation
the numerical is the building of the
via the geometry
finite elementandmethod
the
meshing. For the process—the nucleus of the calculation of the numerical simulation
for the study of microclimates [33]—we propose FreeFem++. For the post-process—in other words, via the finite
element
the methodand
visualization for the study of
analysis of the
microclimates
results—the [33]—we
ParaViewpropose FreeFem++.
program For the post-process—
is suggested.
in other words, the visualization and analysis of the results—the ParaView program is suggested.
5.1. File Exchange
5.1. File Exchange
After studying the import and export compatibilities of the various programs, we propose to use
the IGESAfter studying
format (whosethe import and extension
files have export compatibilities
*.igs) between of the
thevarious programs,
drawing programs we propose
and the to use
GMESH
the IGESand
meshing, format (whoseformat
the MESH files have extension
(whose *.igs)extension
files have between the drawing
*.mesh) programs
between GMESH andand
the FreeFem++.
GMESH
meshing, and the MESH format (whose files have extension *.mesh) between GMESH
IGES (Initial Graphics Exchange Specification) is a neutral data format that enables the digital exchange and FreeFem++.
IGES (Initial Graphics Exchange Specification) is a neutral data format that enables the digital
of information between computer-assisted design (CAD) systems. Despite the emergence of STEP,
exchange of information between computer-assisted design (CAD) systems. Despite the emergence
IGES continues to be the most widely used standard format for exchanging 3D graphics files.
of STEP, IGES continues to be the most widely used standard format for®exchanging 3D®graphics files.
In the proposed method, the geometry is drawn using AutoCAD or SketchUp and exported in
In the proposed method, the geometry is drawn using AutoCAD® or SketchUp® and exported in
the IGES format and read in GMESH. This program is used for meshing the volume generated as it is
the IGES format and read in GMESH. This program is used for meshing the volume generated as it is
made
madespecifically
specifically to carryout
to carry outthis
thistask.
task.
TheThe mesh
mesh is then
is then exported
exported as MESH.
as MESH. All
All this this constitutes
constitutes the pre- the
pre-process.
process. FreeFem++ reads the mesh format (*.mesh), and this program is then used to perform the the
FreeFem++ reads the mesh format (*.mesh), and this program is then used to perform
calculations
calculations(process).
(process). The
The results are presented
results are presentedand andanalyzed
analyzed(post-process)
(post-process)byby exporting
exporting thethe results
results
from
from FreeFem++ to a *.vtk library. These result files are read by the ParaView program where they cancan
FreeFem++ to a *.vtk library. These result files are read by the ParaView program where they
bebeeasily
easilystudied
studiedand
and analyzed, andthen
analyzed, and thenexported
exported toto other
other data
data presentation
presentation formats
formats (Figure
(Figure 5). 5).

Figure Diagramof
Figure 5. Diagram ofthe
theproposed
proposedplug-in
plug-in method.
method.

5.2.
5.2.Case
CaseStudy
Study
AnAnexample
example ofof the proposedmethodology’s
the proposed methodology’s application
application cancan be used
be used to illustrate
to illustrate the process
the process by
byentering
entering in Freefem++
in Freefem++ a geometry
a geometry andofmesh
and mesh of a courtyard
a courtyard (10m)
(10 × 10 × 10 ×in10a building
× 10 m)(30 in ×a30
building
× 10
m)×considering
(30 30 × 10 m)an considering
air volumean of air
50 ×volume
50 × 20 of
m.50 ×first
The 50 ×step
20 m.
is toThe first
build step
the is to build
geometry the geometry
in SketchUp.
in SketchUp.
In SketchUp Make, the “rectangle” tool is used to make a rectangle on the floor. On selecting the
origin of the rectangle,
In SketchUp Make, itthe is “rectangle”
possible to enter the
tool is boundary
used to makemeasurements
a rectangle on that
theappear in the
floor. On square the
selecting
in theofbottom
origin left corner
the rectangle, it isdirectly,
possibleseparated by full
to enter the stops and
boundary commas, with
measurements thatspeed andinaccuracy
appear the square
(Figure 6a).
 The push–pull tool is used to extrude the rectangle upwards, thus generating a volume. As in
the previous case, the user can enter the precise numerical value of the movement when the side and
the direction of the movement have been selected (Figure 6b).
EnergiesThis
2018, type of sketch is one of the simplest systems available for constructing volumes that11allows
11, 2665 of 19
trying out various forms with different thermodynamic behaviors. The volume can be modified at
any time by stretching one of the sides with the push–pull tool; this is an example of the program’s
inflexibility,
the bottom left corner
enabling directly,toseparated
the volume by full
be modified stops
quickly and searching
when commas, with
for a speed andgenerates
form that accuracy a
(Figure 6a).
different microclimate.

(a) (b)

(c) (d)

(e) (f)
Figure6.6.Case
Figure Casestudy
studygeometry
geometryconstruction
constructionprocess
processininSketchUp,
SketchUp,a to f process
a to steps.
f process steps.(a):
(a):initial
initialbase
base
dimension,
dimension, (b):(b):
general volume,
general volume,(c): internal volume,
(c): internal (d): 2D(d):
volume, inner
2Dcourtyard and surrounding
inner courtyard exterior,
and surrounding
(e): same in(e):
exterior, 3D,same
(f): final shape
in 3D, (f): with
final all its dimensional
shape properties. properties.
with all its dimensional

The push–pull tool is used to extrude the rectangle upwards, thus generating a volume. As in the
Using the tools that enable operations between solids (intersecting, joining, subtracting, cutting,
previous case, the user can enter the precise numerical value of the movement when the side and the
dividing), all of which are identified by icons at the top of the screen, complex parallelepiped
direction of the movement have been selected (Figure 6b).
geometries can be created with ease. Other tools allow us to create curved and complex non-
This type of sketch is one of the simplest systems available for constructing volumes that allows
parallelepiped geometries. The line or “offset tool” lets us draw reference lines on the side. The lines
trying out various forms with different thermodynamic behaviors. The volume can be modified at
on a plane that delimit one area of a side of a solid in SketchUp define a region that is different from
any time by stretching one of the sides with the push–pull tool; this is an example of the program’s
that plane. This feature can be identified by clicking on the zone and observing the shadowed area,
flexibility, enabling the volume to be modified quickly when searching for a form that generates a
different microclimate.
Using the tools that enable operations between solids (intersecting, joining, subtracting, cutting,
dividing), all of which are identified by icons at the top of the screen, complex parallelepiped geometries
Energies 2018, 11, 2665 12 of 19

can be created with ease. Other tools allow us to create curved and complex non-parallelepiped
geometries. The line or “offset tool” lets us draw reference lines on the side. The lines on a plane
that delimit one area of a side of a solid in SketchUp define a region that is different from that plane.
This feature can be identified by clicking on the zone and observing the shadowed area, and this can be
cut or Energies
colored 2018, 11, x
separately from the rest of the plane. This quality is very interesting because the13program of 20

automatically
and this can identifies thecolored
be cut or region,separately
labellingfrom
it so the
thatrest
it can then
of the be recognized
plane. This qualityasis avery
numerical model.
interesting
The IGES format uses numbers to automatically identify each of the regions generated.
because the program automatically identifies the region, labelling it so that it can then be recognized Sometimes,
assigning a color tomodel.
as a numerical theseThe regions
IGES can give
format a numbers
uses better understanding
to automaticallyofidentify
the geometry
each of the generated
regions in
SketchUp, thus avoiding
generated. Sometimes, errors of interpretation.
assigning a color to these regions can give a better understanding of the
geometry
From this generated
point, it inis SketchUp,
possible to thus avoiding
export the errors
geometryof interpretation.
to IGES using the plugin placed in the
From this point, it is possible to export the geometry
tools menu (Figure 7a). When dealing with more complex geometries, to IGES using theweplugin
canplaced
checkin the only
that tools one
menu (Figure 7a). When dealing with more complex geometries, we can check
group has been created in order to ensure that the exportation is done correctly. It is also importantthat only one group
has been created in order to ensure that the exportation is done correctly. It is also important to
to remember that GMESH does not import files stored on lower levels (subfiles inside subfolders).
remember that GMESH does not import files stored on lower levels (subfiles inside subfolders). It is
It is advisable to temporarily shift the *.igs export files to the desktop to import them from GMESH
advisable to temporarily shift the *.igs export files to the desktop to import them from GMESH
without any problem.
without any problem.

(a) (b)

(c) (d)

(e) (f)
7. Exporting
FigureFigure process
7. Exporting processof the case
of the casestudy
studygeometry in the
geometry in the *.igs
*.igsformat
format from
from SketchUp,
SketchUp, , af to f
, a to
process steps.steps.
process (a): object in SketchUp,
(a): object in SketchUp, (b):
(b):importing
importing process, (c):object
process, (c): objectinin GMESH,
GMESH, (d):(d): initial
initial mesh, mesh,
(e): densification,
(e): mesh mesh densification, (f): final
(f): final mesh.mesh.

Then, the GMESH program is opened and the *.igs file is imported. This is done by opening the
File menu, selecting Open, and locating the *.igs file on a level close to the desktop (Figure 7b). When
the file is imported, nothing appears in the window. We need to open the “Tool” menu, select
“Option”, then “Geometry”, and mark the elements required for visualization (Figure 7c). It is
Energies 2018, 11, 2665 13 of 19

Then, the GMESH program is opened and the *.igs file is imported. This is done by opening the
File menu, selecting Open, and locating the *.igs file on a level close to the desktop (Figure 7b). When the
file is imported, nothing appears in the window. We need to open the “Tool” menu, select “Option”,
then “Geometry”, and mark the elements required for visualization (Figure 7c). It is important to
check that there are labels for the points (unmarked in the example), vertices, and differentiated sides
and regions within the sides (the windows in the example). These labels are fundamental so that the
regions can be identified and assigned different contours in FreeFem++. Now the 3D meshing can be
done. This is done by opening the “Mesh” menu and clicking on 3D (in red in the figure). After that,
the first meshing takes place. As in the previous case, the data which appear are confusing, with only
the labels that correspond to the mesh nodes being visible. We again need to return to “Option” and
select “Mesh” and mark the elements of the mesh we wish to see (Figure 7d). In “Mesh”, it is important
to be able to visualize the lines, the sides, and the vertices of the sides (2D mesh in sides) in order to
check that the elements have different colors. We check that a 3D mesh has been done in the volume
by selecting “Tool”, “Option”, “Mesh”, and marking “Volume Edges” (Figure 7e). Now it is possible to
proceed to optimizing and defining the mesh, first by clicking on “Optimize 3D (Netgen)”, which is
marked in red (Figure 7f). By clicking on it once, a slight repositioning of the mesh’s tetrahedrons
occurs. Another click produces the same effect, but this time it is less perceptible. If the clicking process
is continued, it is possible to realize that the alterations become smaller and smaller until the mesh
no longer changes. At this point, maximum optimization has been reached, thanks to the program’s
Netgen module.
If a tighter and more precise mesh is necessary, the “Refine by Splitting” option can be used.
Unlike in the previous example, only a single click is normally necessary, as the mesh grows
considerably in density (Figure 7f). A second click could make the mesh very dense, with too many
polygons to enable calculation in FreeFem++ in a reasonable time. A third click would produce a mesh
impossible to calculate. At this point we notice that GMESH has no option to “undo”. If a wrong
calculation is made in refining the mesh and it became too dense, it is possible to go back and start
again by importing the *.igs geometry.
To export the mesh for FreeFem++, select “File” and “Save As”; in the menu that appears with
different import formats, *.mesh must be chosen (Figure 8a). It is important not to confuse this with
the *.msh native format that GMESH uses to save the meshes by default. FreeFem++ cannot read the
*.msh format, only *.mesh. Although the *.mesh format has been selected in the option menu, the file
still has the *.igs extension, so the new extension must be attached manually. The *.mesh folder created
can be saved on any subdirectory level in the computer that can be read by FreeFem++. The mesh can
be imported from FreeFem++ by writing the following lines of code:
mesh3 malla = readmesh3("P_1.mesh");
plot(malla);
This file is saved as *.edp, placing the mesh file “P_1.mesh” in the same directory as *.edp. When
executing the edp, we observe that the mesh has been read by FreeFem++, as appears in Figure 8b [32].
In the processing or calculation phase, the air flow entering one window will be simulated in addition
to the inner one. This is a typical laminar fluid mechanics problem where we apply the Navier–Stokes
equation for a three-dimensional space:

∂2 u1 ∂2 u1
 ∂u1 ∂u1 ∂u1 1 ∂P
∂t + u1 ∂x + u2 ∂y − v ∂x2 − v ∂y2 + ρ ∂x = 0



2
∂ u2 2
∂ u2
∂u2 ∂u2 ∂u2 1 ∂P
 ∂t + u1 ∂x + u2 ∂y − v ∂x2 − v ∂y2 + ρ ∂y = − g
 ∂u1 ∂u2
∂x + ∂y = 0


where:
→
the vector of the air velocity is u = (u1 , u2 );
u1 = u1 (t, x, y), u2 = u2 (t, x, y);
Energies 2018, 11, 2665 14 of 19

the air pressure is P = P (t, x, y);

the air density is ρ;
ϑ = µρ is the air kinematic viscosity;
g is the gravitational constant.
In the FreeFem++ code, the commands to read the mesh, the commands to solve these equations,
and the commands to resolve and save each iteration in a *.vtk library are written as follows:
load "msh3"
load "medit"
load "tetgen"
load "mshmet"
load "UMFPACK64"
load "iovtk"
real nu=0.000015;
real dt=0.1;
real tfinal=3600;
real dts=60;
real t=0;
real tsave=dts;
mesh3 Th=readmesh3("P_1.mesh");
fespace Vh(Th,P1b3d);
fespace Ph(Th,P13d);
Vh uu1,uu2,uu3,v1,v2,v3;
Vh u1=0,u2=0,u3=0;
Ph p,q;
problem NavierStokes3d(uu1,uu2,uu3,p,v1,v2,v3,q,solver=sparsesolver) =
int3d(Th)((uu1*v1+uu2*v2+uu3*v3)/dt
+nu*(dx(uu1)*dx(v1)+dy(uu1)*dy(v1)+dz(uu1)*dz(v1))
+nu*(dx(uu2)*dx(v2)+dy(uu2)*dy(v2)+dz(uu2)*dz(v2))
+nu*(dx(uu3)*dx(v3)+dy(uu2)*dy(v3)+dz(uu3)*dz(v3))
−(dx(uu1)+dy(uu2)+dz(uu3))*q
−(dx(v1)+dy(v2)+dz(v3))*p + 1e-10*q*p)
+int3d(Th)(−convect([u1,u2,u3],-dt,u1)*v1/dt
−convect([u1,u2,u3],-dt,u2)*v2/dt
−convect([u1,u2,u3],-dt,u3)*v3/dt)
+on(4,uu1=(10.0)*(z>9.0),uu2=0,uu3=0)
+on(1,7,8,10,11,9,12,13,14,15,16,uu1=0,uu2=0,uu3=0);
int i=0;
while (t<= tfinal){
NavierStokes3d;
u1=uu1;
u2=uu2;
u3=uu3;
t += dt;
cout << "Time: " << t << " tsave: " << tsave << endl;
if (abs(t-tsave)< 0.0001)
{
i++;
savevtk("it_"+i+".vtk",Th,[u1,u2,u3],p,dataname="Velocity Pressure");
tsave+=dts;
Energies 2018, 11,
Energies 2018, 11, 2665
x 15
16 of
of 19
20

(a) (b)
Figure 8.
Figure 8. Mesh
Mesh made
made in
in GMESH
GMESH andand imported
imported in
in FreeFem++
FreeFem++with
withgeometry
geometryconstructed
constructedin
inSketchUp,
SketchUp,,
a and b process steps. (a): importing process from GMESH, (b): result in FreeFem++
a and b process steps. (a): importing process from GMESH, (b): result in FreeFem++

5.3. Results
The casecase study
studyresults
resultspresentation
presentation was was donedone through
through open-source
open-source software
software ParaView.ParaView.
This
software
This is not
software onlyonly
is not ableable
to read thethe
to read results ofof
results FreeFem++
FreeFem++ but
butalso
alsoallows
allowsgraphic
graphicdata
datavisualization,
visualization,
facilitating intuitive and almost immediate analysis. Results in Paraview, by means of a mesh made
GMESH and
in GMESH and imported
imported into into FreeFem++
FreeFem++ with geometry constructed constructed in SketchUp, are shown in
Figure 9. Figure
Figure 9a shows
shows the example
example mesh mesh in ParaView, and Figure 9b,c 9b,c display
display the the simulation
simulation
results representing
representing the thevector
vectorfield
fieldandandstream
stream lines, respectively.
lines, respectively. TheTheinfluence of wind
influence of windspeed and
speed
direction
and directionon the generation
on the generation of air flows
of air flows in incombination
combinationwith withthe thethermal
thermalimpact
impact of of the
the facades
determine the conformation of a vortex inside the courtyard and a thermal stratification in lower
layers, as shown in Figure Figure 9. 9. The ParaView graphical interface allows a direct visualization of the
geometry changes’
geometry changes’influence
influence on on
the the courtyard
courtyard thermal thermal behaviour.
behaviour. Different Different colours represent
colours represent different
different
flow rates.flow
Usingrates.
theUsing
ParaViewthe ParaView
tool to open tool
theto*.vtk
openlibrary,
the *.vtk
the library,
program the program
allows allows
analysis analysis
of pressure
of pressure
values, speed values,
vectors,speed
andvectors,
current and
lines,current
amonglines, otheramong
resultsother
of theresults of the simulation.
simulation. It also helpsItus also
to
helps us to
visualize andvisualize
understand and its
understand
distribution its and
distribution
evolutionand evolution
within within the three-dimensional
the three-dimensional space. This is
space.
vital forThis is vital for understanding
understanding the specific
the specific structures thatstructures
emerge and that emerge
which are and which of
the results arethe
theinteraction
results of
the interaction
between between
the physical the physical
properties of the properties of the fluid
fluid in motion and thein motion
form of and the form
the space of the itspace
in which in
moves.
which
In other it words,
moves. theIn other
design words,
of thethe design
space of thethese
modifies spacestructures.
modifies these structures.
So, being able toSo, seebeing
themable to
more
see them
clearly more clearly
enables enablesan
us to produce usarchitectural
to produce andesign architectural
that bestdesign thatcharacteristics.
fits these best fits these characteristics.
interplaybetween
The interplay betweenCAD CAD andand FreeFem++
FreeFem++ andand the subsequent
the subsequent visualization
visualization in ParaView
in ParaView allows
allows
us us not
not only onlyato
to apply apply system
meshing a meshing good system
enough good enough
for tackling for tackling
problems problems
involving involving
thermodynamics
thermodynamics
and fluid mechanics, andbut fluid mechanics,
to generate but to generatedesign
a decision-making a decision-making
tool based on the design
data tool basedthrough
feedback on the
adata feedback
suitable through
graphic a suitable
support. Thisgraphic
paper support.
proposesThis paper proposes
a methodology a methodology
based on open source basedsoftware
on open
source software
effective effective
for adapting for adapting
courtyard designcourtyard
to a specific design to aenvironment.
climatic specific climatic Theenvironment.
next step would Thebenext
to
step would
create be toplatform
a unified create a that
unified
could platform
integrate that could
these integrate
steps into thethese
one steps into the one application.
application.
 Energies 2018, 11, 2665 16 of 19
Energies 2018, 11, x 17 of 20

(a) (b)

(c)
Figure 9. Results of the case study displayed by Paraview, a to c process steps. (a): general meshing
Figure 9. Results of the case study displayed by Paraview, , a to c process steps. (a): general meshing
view, (b) and (c): simulation results representing the vector field (b) and stream lines (c).
view, (b) and (c): simulation results representing the vector field (b) and stream lines (c).
6. Conclusions
6. Conclusions
There is a huge opportunity regarding energy saving in the correct design of microclimates in
There isspaces
outdoor a hugewithin
opportunity regarding
courtyards energy saving
in buildings or public in the correct
spaces designNonetheless,
in cities. of microclimates in
increasing
outdoor spaces within courtyards in buildings or public spaces in cities. Nonetheless,
energy efficiency in buildings requires the development of simulation tools enabling us to gain a increasing
energy
betterefficiency in buildings
understanding of theserequires the development
environments and performofmore simulation
accuratetools enablingThe
calculations. us to gainofa the
nature
better understanding
challenge of these
means that environments
different and perform
fields of knowledge, suchmore accurate calculations.
as architectural The nature
design, mathematical of
models,
the and
challenge means that different fields of
energy engineering, need to interact [38]. knowledge, such as architectural design, mathematical
models, Programs
and energywidely
engineering, need to interact
in professional [38].as DesignBuilder, consider the air temperature in
use, such
Programstowidely
courtyards in professional
be exactly use,outside,
the same as that such asi.e.,
DesignBuilder, consider
for these programs, the air microclimate
a different temperature inin the
courtyards
courtyards does not exist. This has led to justification of recommendations and energy standardsinthat
to be exactly the same as that outside, i.e., for these programs, a different microclimate
the advise
courtyards doesthe
limiting notshape
exist.factor
This has ledbetween
(ratio to justification
envelope of recommendations
and interior volume and energy standards
contained) in buildings.
that advise Actual monitoring performed in courtyards by our research group and other authorsin has
limiting the shape factor (ratio between envelope and interior volume contained)
buildings.
demonstrated that the temperature in a courtyard in summer is significantly lower than that outside,
Actual
i.e., theremonitoring performed
is a microclimate in courtyards
within the same. by Theourmainresearch
aim ofgroup and other
this study authors
was to has the
appraise
demonstrated that the temperature in a courtyard in summer is significantly lower than that outside,
i.e., there is a microclimate within the same. The main aim of this study was to appraise the most
commonly employed programmes for the energy simulation of buildings as a basis to bring forward
Energies 2018, 11, 2665 17 of 19

most commonly employed programmes for the energy simulation of buildings as a basis to bring
forward a new methodology to achieve a more precise system that is also easy to implement within
Computer-Aided Design software.
Despite the current availability of integrated programmes, such as emerging BIM systems,
the aptitude showed by most common energy analysis simulation software packages for the
modelling of thermal conditions in small-sized outdoor spaces such as inner courtyards is limited.
Hence, its potential effectiveness not only depends on the amount of exchanged information, but also
on a system configured in such a way that allows enough flexibility to predict the thermodynamical
behaviour and the appropriate transparency to enable understanding of the mathematical model of
the physical processes. These characteristics are more typical of open source codes.
Furthermore, there are some standardization challenges nowadays for energy performance
assessment in a BIM context. The general framework must be a holistic or systemic approach which
combines indoor climate requirements in a specific environment distinguishing transitional spaces’
microclimates from the outdoor climate parameters with the required accuracy. Moreover, the widespread
use of openBIM as a central technology would be desirable for information management that can
combine inputs from different BIM, mostly free, open source software tools that enable full control
over how the energy performance is calculated
The comparative study of the energy calculation tools included in Section 2 shows that the
programme based on FreeFem++ possesses all these characteristics except for its current lack of
compatibility with the main CAD design programmes used in architecture.
In this paper, a method connecting these drawing tools for generating geometries (AutoCAD and
SketchUp) that enables them to be meshed (GMESH) and the calculations performed by FreeFem++
was developed. Also, a tool for data analysis was considered (ParaView).
The presented methodology sets the way forward for the development of a new unified tool
that allows proper real-time knowledge of the architectural geometries influencing the generation of
outdoor microclimates to improve both comfort and energy optimization.
A future step in the research will be to develop a method to calculate the temperatures produced
by the microclimate of the courtyard and to subsequently introduce it into commercial energy balance
programs, thus more accurately calculating the energy performance of buildings taking into account
the energy savings produced by the courtyard.

Supplementary Materials: The following are available online at http://www.mdpi.com/1996-1073/11/10/2665/s1,

Video S1: 01_Preprocess_Simulation, S1: 02_Postprocess simulation.
Author Contributions: Conceptualization, J.R.-F. and E.D.F.-N.; Data curation, J.R.-F.; Formal analysis, C.R.-G.;
Funding acquisition, C.G.-M.; Investigation, J.R.-F., C.G.-M. and C.R.-G.; Methodology, J.R.-F. and E.D.F.-N.;
Project administration, C.G.-M.; Software, J.R.-F. and E.D.F.z-N.; Supervision, C.G.-M.; Writing—original draft,
J.R.-F.; Writing—review & editing, C.G.-M. and C.R.-G.
Funding: This work was supported by the National Government of Spain Research Project MTM2015-64577-C2-2-R.
Acknowledgments: The authors wish to acknowledge the IUACC “Instituto Universitario de Arquitectura y
Ciencias de la Construcción” for the necessary support to develop this research.
Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest. The founding sponsors had no role in the design
of the study; in the collection, analyses, or interpretation of data; in the writing of the manuscript, and in the
decision to publish the results.

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