EnergyPlus Example Files

grasshopper honeybee
#1

Kia ora

Using your excellent “HB Load Energy Model” component, I am finding that I obtain this abstruse error when I try to load any of the Energy Plus Airflow Network idf Example files:

  1. Solution exception:Failed to run OpenStudio CLI: Cannot load IDF file at ‘’

I am considering suggesting that students in a Positive Energy class mine the EnergyPlus Example Files for the application of technologies like PV, Thermal Chimneys, Heat Recovery etc. The goal is to introduce them to the technologies, and to modelling them, plus also understanding how we can learn from others’ documented approaches.

This is looking promising as I assign them a script like that attached:
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EPlus_Examples_and_RunControl.gh (57.0 KB)

I would also add that the E+ example files for Shop with SimplePVT and ThermalChimney have materials in them that trigger a warning in your energy model importer that might need a second line of logic: they contain models of ultra-thin highly-conductive materials that cannot be imported.

As always, any thoughts or suggestions about this approach greatly welcomed.

#2

HI @MichaelDonn
The error “Failed to run OpenStudio CLI: Cannot load IDF file at ‘” is related to the version of E+ which created the idf file. You’are using LBT 1.5 so you can install E+22.1 and do a test with one of the differents examples idf files.
AndyK

#3

Kia ora @AndyKobe

I have version 22.1 installed, and I am using the example files from the Examples folder installed in the E+22.1 folder set up when I installed it.

I will try running the errant files through the E+ update version utility!

Thanks

M

#4

Kia ora @AndyKobe

I am unsure that this is an answer, rather than an explanation of the behaviour observed.

Delving into this question a little deeper, I was pointed to this github conversation led by @chris https://github.com/ladybug-tools/honeybee-legacy/issues/134

As I read it: OpenStudio still does not handle Airflow Networks because the developers are focused on a very corporate, large building, view of the world which sees Natural Ventilation as a minor issue. LBT gets around this somehow while still essentially building an .osm model.

So, if I wish to find a Heat Recovery Ventilation example file to import as part of my class, I should not use any of the E+ AFN files as the import energy model component in LBT must be using at least some of the functionality of the OS import approach which produces (in Open Studio) this error:
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#5

Hi @MichaelDonn ,

Bear in mind that AFN cannot imported from IDF files but you can always set up your Honeybee models to use the AFN like the sample that you see here. Only geometry, boundary conditions, constructions, schedules and loads are imported. HVAC, SHW and AFN are too complex to be imported easily.

Your IDF without the AFN imports and simulates fine on my end:

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