HVAC system input approaches

HVAC system input approaches can vary significantly depending on the software program being used. System inputs may be either component-based (highly flexible, but more effort to define the system) or menu-based (predefined system types with the ability to modify some aspects of the system via menus or other options).

Component-based system inputs

Component-based BEM software is simulation software that allows users to describe individual HVAC elements and then allows them to arrange them in a variety of configurations usually based on where the components appear in piping or duct ing arrangements. This is probably best illustrated by TRNSYS and BEM software using Modelica.

Non-component-based system inputs

In contrast, non-component based software may allow some limited flexibility (such as a fan appearing before or after the coils) but the flexibility is preprogrammed and the user has limited options.