An Expert System Based on OpenStudio Platform for Evaluation of Daylighting System Design

Simulation tools can provide valuable information for daylighting system design while optimization methods can determine feasible solutions from a number of uncertain design parameters. However, optimization methods allow for limited interactivity and only consider several performance criteria. Therefore, to utilize experts’ domain knowledge, this research presents a rule-based expert system based on OpenStudio platform, which integrates daylighting and thermal simulations. The expert system can interpret and compare different design changes and options based on the pre-defined rules and simulation results, and can provide possible solutions in the case of failure to meet design performance criteria. The users can interactively provide alternative design options to the expert system for evaluation based on users’ knowledge. The expert system can provide guidance to evaluate daylighting design.