The Commercial Building Systems Group explores different ways to integrate the efforts of the other Program groups (windows, lighting and simulations) with the goal of developing coherent and innovative building construction and design techniques. The Group focuses on the development of advanced computer-based building design tools that assist the architect or engineer in decision making from early, schematic design through building construction, commissioning and operation. In the spirit of the Healthy or Green Building, the Group also seeks ways to integrate a variety of isolated building technologies into complete systems that allow for compounded energy efficiency and an increased building life-cycle. 

RESEARCH AREAS

High Performance Commercial Building Systems
Multi-institution, cross-departmental project
     Life-Cycle Tools
        Cal-Arch
    Low-Energy Cooling 

Demand Response Program
Technology Demonstrations for Large Commercial and Institutional Buildings

Continuous Performance Monitoring

Commissioning/Retro-commissioning
Extend equipment life, improve comfort, and save energy. Develop automated tools to diagnose inefficiencies
    Diagnostics for Building Commissioning and Operation

Building Performance Assurance
    BLISS (Building Life-cycle Information Support System)
    Interoperability, IFCs, Life-cycle tools

Software
    Building Design Advisor (BDA)  -- Integrated design tool
    Desktop Radiance -- Lighting/daylighting simulation program