COMFEN 1.0

Last Updated: 06/20/2008 

Overview

COMFEN is a new tool designed to support the systematic evaluation of alternative fenestration systems for project-specific commercial building applications.  COMFEN provides a simplified Excel-based user interface that focuses attention on key variables in fenestration design.  Under the hood is EnergyPlus, a sophisticated analysis engine that dynamically simulates the effects of these key fenestration variables on energy consumption, peak energy demand, and thermal and visual comfort.  The results from the EnergyPlus simulation are presented in graphical and tabular format within the simplified user interface for up to four comparative fenestration design cases to help users move toward optimal fenestration design choices for their project.

GET A COPY of COMFEN 1.0  
 (Download the program)

KNOWLEDGE BASE
(A list of known issues that the user should be aware of)

DOCUMENTATION
(PDF file of draft documentation explaining how to use COMFEN -- it is included in the program installation)

SCREEN SHOTS

Features of COMFEN

  • Flexible Fenestration Facade Design

Easily define fenestration facade details for one or more zone modules representative of your specific project.  Facade variations can include window number, size and placement, glazing and frame system, and exterior shading by overhangs and fins.

  • Comparative Facade Analysis

Select up to four facade variations for comparative analysis.  Each of the selected facades can optionally include daylighting controls, and can be oriented to face different directions.  EnergyPlus simulation can be performed for a full typical meteorological year or for any user specified partial year duration.

  • Graphical Display of Analysis Results

Comparative charts are displayed for annual end-use energy consumption (heating, cooling, fan, and lighting), peak energy, and CO2 emissions.  Annual average daylighting illuminance, discomfort glare index, and thermal comfort PPD are also reported.

More detailed graphs are also displayed for monthly heating, cooling, fan, and lighting energy consumption, peak energy, and thermal comfort; and hourly daylight illuminance and glare index.

Intended Audience

  • Architectural and engineering designers wanting to explore the many options in fenestration design.
     

  • Fenestration product vendors wanting to compare the benefits of specific fenestration product choices.

Limitations of Current Version

While COMFEN 1.0 has been developed to be a useful design tool, there are limitations in its current implementation that may limit its usefulness for specific design projects.  The intent is to build on this initial version, removing the current limitations, and enhancing future versions of COMFEN based on industry user feedback.

  • Available glazing system selections are limited to a non-extendable glazing system library.
     

  • Dynamic shading options and internal shades are not currently available.
     

  • Available project locations are limited to a non-extendable weather library.
     

  • Internal load and schedule defaults for small office buildings are currently implemented.  These defaults are not user customizable.
     

  • A single HVAC system type, packaged single zone, is currently available.

SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS:

 COMFEN has been tested on Microsoft Windows XP. Older version of Microsoft Windows might work, but are not supported.  (The program WILL NOT run with Windows 3.1TM, Windows NT 3.51TM or Windows 95TM).
 
COMFEN has been tested and run successfully on Apple computers with Intel processors by using Parallels Desktop 3.0 for Mac. This software allows you to install Windows XP or Windows Vista on your Mac, and you can install our software in that version of Windows XP or Vista. See www.parallels.com for more information.

 

Last Updated: 06/20/2008