Vista User Guide: Virtual Environment

Vista User Guide
Virtual Environment
Copyright 2015 Integrated Environmental Solutions Limited. All rights reserved.
No part of the manual is to be copied or reproduced in any form without the express agreement of
Integrated Environmental Solutions Limited.
Contents
1. Introduction ....................................................................................................... 4
2. Vista View .......................................................................................................... 4
3. Specifying Data for Output .............................................................................. 6
3.1. Specifying Results ................................................................................................................ 6
3.2. Specifying Variables ............................................................................................................. 7
3.2.1. Model Variables ........................................................................................................... 7
3.2.2. Weather Variables ....................................................................................................... 8
3.3. Specifying Parts of the Building ........................................................................................... 8
4. Using the Output Toolbar................................................................................. 9
4.1. The Common Chart Dialog ................................................................................................ 11
4.1.1. Output Menu .............................................................................................................. 11
4.1.2. Analysis Menu ........................................................................................................... 11
4.2. X-Y Chart ............................................................................................................................ 12
4.3. Multiple Room Graph Plotter .............................................................................................. 12
4.4. Data Table .......................................................................................................................... 14
4.5. Snapshot ............................................................................................................................ 15
4.6. Synopsis (min/mean/max) .................................................................................................. 15
4.7. Range Tests ....................................................................................................................... 16
4.8. Monthly Totals .................................................................................................................... 17
4.9. Set Dates ............................................................................................................................ 18
4.10. Comfort............................................................................................................................... 20
4.10.1. Comfort Settings ........................................................................................................ 20
4.11. Peak Time Table ................................................................................................................ 21
4.12. Peak Day Table .................................................................................................................. 22
4.13. Peak Day Graph ................................................................................................................. 23
4.14. Heating Loads Summary .................................................................................................... 24
4.15. Cooling Loads Summary .................................................................................................... 25
4.16. Cooling Loads Detail .......................................................................................................... 26
4.17. Air Flow Sizing Summary ................................................................................................... 27
4.18. System Cooling Loads Summary ....................................................................................... 27
4.19. System Cooling Loads Detail ............................................................................................. 28
4.20. Building and System Loads Summary ............................................................................... 28
5. General Settings ............................................................................................. 31
5.1. Graph Line Colours ............................................................................................................ 31
5.2. Units Display ...................................................................................................................... 31
5.3. Automatic Graph Saving .................................................................................................... 31
6. VistaPro ........................................................................................................... 32
6.1. Variable Browser ................................................................................................................ 32
6.1.1. General ...................................................................................................................... 33
6.1.2. Files ........................................................................................................................... 34
6.1.3. Categories ................................................................................................................. 34
6.1.4. Variables .................................................................................................................... 35
6.2. Analysis Toolbar ................................................................................................................. 38
6.3. Vista Bar ........................................................................................................................... 40
6.3.1. Selected Variables List .............................................................................................. 40
6.3.2. Combine Options ....................................................................................................... 40
6.3.3. Display Options ......................................................................................................... 41
6.3.4. Date / Time Selection ................................................................................................ 42
6.4. Custom Variables ............................................................................................................... 42
6.5. Visualisation ....................................................................................................................... 44
6.5.1. MacroFlo Arrows ....................................................................................................... 44
6.5.2. Variable Shading ....................................................................................................... 45
6.5.3. Wind Rose ................................................................................................................. 46
7. Vista Variables ................................................................................................ 47
VE 2015 Vista: Results Viewer 2

7.1. Weather Variables .............................................................................................................. 47
7.2. Model Level Variables ........................................................................................................ 48
7.2.1. Loads ......................................................................................................................... 48
7.2.2. Energy ....................................................................................................................... 49
7.2.3. Carbon ....................................................................................................................... 50
7.3. Apache System Variables .................................................................................................. 50
7.3.1. System ....................................................................................................................... 51
7.3.2. Energy ....................................................................................................................... 52
7.3.3. Carbon ....................................................................................................................... 52
7.4. Room Variables .................................................................................................................. 52
7.5. Surface Variables ............................................................................................................... 55
7.6. VE-Compliance Variables .................................................................................................. 57
7.6.1. VE-Compliance Energy ............................................................................................. 57
7.6.2. VE-Compliance Carbon ............................................................................................. 58
7.7. Component Variables ......................................................................................................... 59
7.8. Node Variables ................................................................................................................... 60
7.9. Multiplex Results ................................................................................................................ 60

1. Introduction
Vista is located under the thermal group of applications within the IES Virtual
Environment. It is intended as a tool to quickly and easily analyse the results
from one or more simulations carried out using the thermal modelling tools.
The package reads ApacheCalc (CIBSE Heat Loss & Heat Gain Calculation),
ApacheLoads (ASHRAE Heat Balance Method Calculation), ApacheSim
dynamic thermal simulation files and real climate data files.
2. Vista View
The Vista application workspace consists of distinct areas of user input. They
are ordered vertically from top to bottom:
The main Vista menu:
The Vista toolbar provides shortcuts to opening new results files and plotting
new graphs or tables and is different for each type of file to be analysed:
Simulation files (*.aps):
Heating Loads (*.htg):
Cooling Loads (*.clg):
The model view area acts in the same way as in the other application
workspaces. That is, clicking onto a room selects it. If you double click a room, it
takes you down one decomposition level. You can navigate down to openings to
get air flow rates, etc. Please note that you can also use the model browser on
the left hand side of the screen to control what room is selected. If you select
outside the model or select Model on the browser, then the results for the
whole model are selected. The variables available for selection are different to
the individual rooms.

Any change in selection of any part of the model is automatically reflected in the
dialog bar (in terms of what level of the model is selected) and in the last-
created graph or chart, in terms of which part of the model is used for results
analysis.
The view toolbar acts in the same way as other application workspaces allowing
you to control the level of decomposition of the model and what angle it is
viewed from.
The dialog bar has a number of input areas, with each one distinctly labelled.
These are described in more detail later in the manual. Suffice to say that, once
you have created a new graph or table, then when you change the selections in
this area of the screen, then the viewed output on the latest graph or table is
updated accordingly. This makes it easy to browse around a model and the
associated thermal results.

3. Specifying Data for Output
The primary aim of Vista is to allow the user to obtain a graphical or tabular form
of results very quickly. Once a method of output has been selected from the
output toolbar, the latest chart dialog reflects any changes selected by the user.
As soon as you click onto a new results file or variable, that change should be
reflected in the display straight away, although there may be some delay when
large data quantities are being processed.
3.1. Specifying Results

When Vista is manually selected by the user, the system automatically loads
the results files stored in the Vista sub-folder of your project. If you wish to add
new files to look at, you can select File > Open from the Vista menu, or you
can click the Open File button in the Output toolbar. Any new files are added to
the simulation results files list at the bottom of the screen.
When Vista is called automatically at the end of a simulation run, you don't
need to specify the results file. The newly created file is opened automatically
for you. Results are sorted into the 4 main types; heating load results either
from ApacheCalc or ApacheLoads are shown in red text and have the suffix
*.htg, cooling load results either from ApacheCalc or ApacheLoads are shown
in blue text and have the suffix *.clg. ApacheSim dynamic thermal simulation
results are shown as black text and have the suffix *.aps, weather files (*.fwt or
*.epw) are shown with green text. The drop down box above the results can be
used to sort the different results.
When you want to specify a file to be used, just click onto it. All highlighted files
will be used for results display. You can deselect a file by just clicking onto it
again.
Results files are closed by selecting File > Close from the Vista menu. All

currently highlighted files are closed, and removed from the file list.
3.2. Specifying Variables

All available variables are displayed in the dialog bar at the bottom of the
screen. There are two different types of variables: those for the model
simulation and those for the weather. The currently selected variables are
highlighted in the Single lists. The Multi-select lists are just ways of short-
cutting selecting various common combinations of single variables. If you
select None in the Multi-select box, it will clear all highlighted variables. To
deselect a single variable, click on it a second time.
3.2.1. Model Variables

These variables are obtained from the steady state calculations and Apache
simulation results files. When you navigate to different levels of the building, you will
notice the listed variables change.
When you are at the model level (i.e. more than one room is displayed), and at least
one room is selected, then the variables which are relevant to rooms are displayed.
When you can see more than one room, but no room is selected, or you click Model
on the Model Browser, then you can access the model level variables (total energy
loads, etc).
Air flow rates etc. can be accessed by navigating down to the surface level and
selecting an opening. This assumes that you have incorporated air flow into the
simulation using MacroFlo.

3.2.2. Weather Variables
These variables are obtained from the weather file which is associated with a
specific simulation results file. As with the Model simulation variables, you can select
common groups of variables. The None selection removes all previous selections.
The weather data is not extracted from the simulation file, but is instead extracted
from the weather file which is associated with a particular simulation. Individual
weather files can also be viewed separately.
3.3. Specifying Parts of the Building

You can use the view toolbar to control how you view the model, in the same
way as for other application workspaces such as ModelIT.
Please note that when the blue arrows (up/down) are clicked, then the
variables which are accessible will change accordingly.

4. Using the Output Toolbar
The output toolbar is shown below the Vista menu.
Simulation files (*.aps):
The buttons are (from left to right):
Open File
Results file properties
Cursor reset
Layer properties
X-Y chart
Multiple Graph Room Plotter
Data Table
Snapshot
Synopsis (min\mean\max)
Range tests
Monthly Totals
Comfort Settings.
Peak time table
Peak day table
Peak day graph
Peak day graph autosave
Model Viewer
Heating Loads (*.htg):
Open File
Cursor reset
Layer properties
Building and System Loads report
X-Y chart
Data Table

Comfort Settings.
Heating loads summary
Radiator selection
Model Viewer
Cooling Loads (*.clg):
Open File
Cursor reset
Layer properties
X-Y chart
Data Table
Snapshot
Range tests
Monthly Totals
Comfort Settings.
Peak time table
Peak day table
Peak day graph
Peak day graph autosave
Room cooling loads summary
Room cooling loads detail
Air sizing summary
System loads summary
System loads detail
Model Viewer
The Open File button has been described before, and is used to add sets of
results. The reset cursor button acts in the same way as for ModelIT. The other
buttons will generate a new chart/table and display it straight away,
incorporating the currently selected variables for the currently selected parts of
the building these will be explained in greater detail in later sections of this user
guide.

When charts or tables are created, they are listed in the Charts List menu. You
can minimise a chart, and it will remain listed here. When you select it in the list
it will be displayed again. If you close a chart, it is removed from the list, and
completely removed from memory.
4.1. The Common Chart Dialog

The common chart dialog is used to accommodate the different displays and
manipulation for the displayed output. It will appear automatically when one of
the output buttons have been clicked on the Output toolbar.
The two main menu items in the common chart dialog are Output and Analysis.
4.1.1. Output Menu

This menu item allows you to:
Copy Copies the current output to the Windows clipboard for pasting into another application.
Save Saves the output to the relevant file format.
Print Prints the display directly to a selected printer.
Report Creates a HTML report when results are being viewed as a table.
Hide Minimises the chart so that it can be reactivated again by selecting the chart in the chart
list.
Close Destroys the chart and closes the window, removing it from the chart list.
4.1.2. Analysis Menu

This menu item allows you to change analysis/display options and has the same
differet options dependant on the results being viewed:
Set Dates Changes the days (or time) over which you want to look at results
X-Y Line Graph Changes the mode to an X-Y plot
Data Table Changes the display to the source data, displayed in tabular format
Snapshot Shows data at a specific time and date
Synopsis Summarises the data, in terms of minimum value, maximum value and mean
value over the currently selected period
Ranges Allows you to test the data over the currently selected dates
(above/below/between set values).
Monthly Totals Allows you to summarise data totals over calendar months. Primarily
intended for use with variables which are given in watts or kW
Peak time table Identifies the peak time for the selected variable and shows any coincident
variable data chosen in tabular form
Peak day table Identifies the peak day for the selected variable and shows any coincident
variable data chosen in tabular form

Peak day graph Identifies the peak day for the selected variable and shows any coincident
variable data chosen in graphical form
4.2. X-Y Chart

The X-Y chart mode for the common chart dialog allows you to look at a
straightforward plot of the currently selected data. If you left-mouse click the
graph, you can set the dates for the analysis period. Right-mouse clicking
allows you to copy/save/print the graph.
If you have a large number of data selected, it is recommended that you

enlarge the window (which will resize automatically) to improve the area within
which the graph can be plotted.
4.3. Multiple Room Graph Plotter

This option enables the user to automatically plot several rooms and output
each graph to disk. Until the X-Y chart button is selected then this option is
inactive. Once the button becomes active, we can then click the button which
will execute the dialogue below:

The user can select any number of rooms from the list of rooms provided (or
from the room browser) and then click the button labeled Multiple-Plot. Once
clicked, a graph for each room would be saved in an enhanced meta file
(*.emf) format which can easily be inserted to any reporting documentation.
Note Enhanced Meta File is a common vector based graphics format which
can be easily imported into most word processors, such as: MS Word, Open
Office etc.
By default, each file will be saved into a sub-folder of the <project>\Vista\ folder
called graphs and each file name will be pre-ceded with XY. Should you wish
to change these values then click the button labeled Change Output Options
which will execute the settings for automatic XY plot image and saving
window allowing you to customise these values:

Note this window can also be executed from the menu item Settings >
Automatic Graph Saving
4.4. Data Table

This tabular mode allows you to inspect all of the constituent data for the
current selections of file, model item and variable. You can use the Output
menu to Copy, Save, Print, etc. You can copy the data to the clipboard and
paste it into a spreadsheet package, which should automatically drop the data
into row/column formats for further analysis. The Analysis > Set Dates menu
can also be used to change the analysis period.

If you have quite a few columns in the table, it is recommended that you
enlarge the table manually to improve the appearance of what can be viewed.
4.5. Snapshot
This tabular mode shows the value of any selected variable for the date/time
specified:
The output can be copied, saved, etc. in the normal way, using the Output
menu.
4.6. Synopsis (min/mean/max)

This tabular mode does a quick analysis of the selected data in terms of
minimum, mean and maximum values, over the currently selected time period.
The times at which the limits are reached are displayed as well.
The output can be copied, saved, etc. in the normal way, using the Output
menu.

4.7. Range Tests
The range test mode is particularly useful if you want to test for certain
conditions being met in the room of a building. It allows you to test how
frequently certain limits are exceeded. The following areas of this dialog are of
particular importance:
Variable Allows you to pick the single variable to be tested.

Test Type Allows you to select how the test is to be carried out (above certain
values, below certain values, or between set limits).
Above/below set points tests against the room heating and cooling
set points as defined in Room Conditions of the thermal template.
Values Specifies the limits to be used. The number of steps specifies the
number of equal graduations to be used between the specified limits.
Day/Time Specifies which week days are to be tested within the currently
selected period and also which times of day are to be included.
Occupied times only restricts the test to only times when there are
people in the room as defined by Occupancy gains in thermal
template.
Average, Shared hours (logical OR test)

When the average, shared hours checkbox is ticked an additional row is added
to the bottom of the table displaying the sum of hours when at least one room
in the selection meets the range condition for each column.
Whenever you change the Variable selection, the table at the bottom of the
dialog will be updated automatically. However, for other parts of the dialog, you
will need to click the apply button to update the range test table.
Note: Above/below set points, Occupied Hours only and Averaged, Shared
hours only available for room variables.
If you select more than 2 or 3 steps for the tests, then you may want to enlarge
the window to ensure that all the text is visible.
4.8. Monthly Totals

This mode for the common chart dialog will total all data values over a calendar
month, based on the simulation time step (default 1 hour). It is primarily
intended to total energy and load values as kWh values, allowing power

demand and usage to be analysed for the building elements.
If several variables are selected, you may need to enlarge the window to allow
you to see all of the text.
4.9. Set Dates

The Set Dates dialog is used to set the start and finish dates for viewing in the
common chart dialog.
In the main month area of the dialog, if you left-mouse click a day, then that

day will be set as the start day to view. You can right-mouse click a day to set
that day as the end-day. Move between months using the list at the left of the
dialog. All currently selected days are displayed with a grey background.
Click Default Dates to select the entire simulation period.

Click the blue single arrow (backwards or forwards) to move the whole
selected period by the same duration as the span between the start and end
days. That is, if you select 7 days of a month, and you click the Next Selection
single arrow button, then the selection will be moved forwards one week. If you
select a whole calendar month, and click the same button, then it will move the
whole selection one month forward.
Click the blue double arrow (backwards or forwards) to skip to the
corresponding month, in order to make a selection.
Any changes in this dialog will be immediately reflected in the associated

common chart dialog which is displayed at the time.
In the case of a Snapshot the date is taken to be the

4.10. Comfort
4.10.1. Comfort Settings
By selecting the comfort settings button on the Vista toolbar, the user is presented
with the dialog below, enabling them to define their comfort parameters. By default,
the comfort settings are initialised to sensible values.
From the drop down list provided, the user may choose from a pre-defined list or opt
to enter a customised value. Once the user is happy with their new settings, simply
click the Apply button to change the current settings/parameters.
Tick the TM52 Adaptive Comfort checkbox to access the inputs for assessing
adaptive thermal comfort in line with CIBSE TM52 2013. This is required before the
applicable variables will be displayed in VistaPro, please refer to the VistaPro
Adaptive Thermal Comfort (CIBSE TM52) User Guide for further details.

4.11. Peak Time Table
The peak time table takes a variable and shows produces a table that shows
the peak time of the peak value of that variable. Firstly the variables have to be
selected, this is done from the variables list, then after selecting the peak time
table button a dialog appears:
Once the peak variable has been selected the peak time table is shown as
below:
The drop down list at the top of the peak time table will change the peak
variable.

4.12. Peak Day Table
The peak day table takes a variable and shows produces a table that shows
the peak day of the peak value of that variable. Firstly the variables have to be
selected, this is done from the variables list, then after selecting the peak day
table button a dialog appears:
Once the peak variable has been selected the peak day table is shown as
below:

The drop down list at the top of the peak day table will change the peak
variable.
4.13. Peak Day Graph

The peak day graph takes a variable and shows produces a table that shows
the peak day of the peak value of that variable. Firstly the variables have to be
selected, this is done from the variables list, then after selecting the peak day
graph button a dialog appears:
Once the peak variable has been selected the peak day graph is shown as
below:

The drop down list at the top of the peak day graph will change the peak
variable.
4.14. Heating Loads Summary

The heating loads summary button only appears if heat loss in ApacheCalc or
heating loads in ApacheLoads. This summary identifies the heating loads and
all the losses that make up the heating load on the room:

4.15. Cooling Loads Summary
The cooling loads summary button only appears if heat gains in ApacheCalc or
cooling loads in ApacheLoads. This summary identifies the cooling loads and
all the gains that make up the cooling load on the room:

4.16. Cooling Loads Detail
The cooling loads detail button only appears if heat gains in ApacheCalc or
cooling loads in ApacheLoads. This dialog identifies the cooling loads and all
the gains that make up the cooling load on the room for the currently selected
period.

4.17. Air Flow Sizing Summary
The air flow sizing summary button only appears if heat gains in ApacheCalc or
cooling loads in ApacheLoads. This dialog identifies the air flows into all
chosen rooms.
4.18. System Cooling Loads Summary

The system cooling loads summary button only appears if heat gains in
ApacheCalc or cooling loads in ApacheLoads. This dialog identifies the loads
on the apache system that are used in the model.

4.19. System Cooling Loads Detail
The system cooling loads detail button only appears if heat gains in
ApacheCalc or cooling loads in ApacheLoads. This dialog identifies the loads
on the apache system that are used in the model detailed by the current
selected time step.
4.20. Building and System Loads Summary
This summary creates a HTML report that shows a summary of both the heat
loss/heating loads and heat gains/cooling loads. An example of this output is
shown below:
IES Virtual Environment 5.4.0
Summary of building heating and cooling performance.
1. General Summary
Model Data Cooling Calculation Data Heating Calculation Data
Project file: "0511-02- Cooling results file: "0511-02- Heating results file: "0511-02-
FormulaProfiles.mit" FormulaProfiles.clg" FormulaProfiles.htg"
Model total floor area = 42.7 m Calculated at 14:49 on 03/Nov/05 Calculated at 14:49 on

03/Nov/05
Model total volume = 110.6 m Calc. Period: May - Sep Calc. Period: January
Number of rooms = 4
2. Building Heating Loads Summary

Room load (kW) Air heating load (kW) Boiler load
System
Heating plant sens. Hum. plant System air Aux mech vent (kW) (W/m)
Main system 6.85 1.31 0.00 0.00 8.98 210.25
Auxiliary Mech Vent 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 n/a
Total 6.85 1.31 0.00 0.00 8.98 210.25
3. Room Heating Plant Loads

Conduction gain
Ventilation gain (kW)
Air (kW) Air system Heating plant
Room temp. input sensible Aux sensible load
(C) Natural
External Internal (kW) mech Infiltration (kW)
vent
vent
Test Room 19.00 -0.60 -0.00 0.00 -1.11 0.00 0.00 1.71
Test Room 19.00 -0.60 -0.00 0.00 -1.11 0.00 0.00 1.71
Test Room 19.00 -0.60 -0.00 0.00 -1.11 0.00 0.00 1.71
Test Room 19.00 -0.60 -0.00 0.00 -1.11 0.00 0.00 1.71
4. Building Cooling Loads Summary

Peak Room load (kW) System air clg. load (kW) Aux mech vent clg. load (kW) Chillers load
Day Date Cooling plant sens. Dehum. plant Sens. Lat. Sens. Lat. (kW) (W/m)
Jul 16:30 5.07 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 5.33 124.81
5. System Cooling Loads

System air clg. Aux mech vent clg.
Peak Room load (kW) Chiller load
load (kW) load (kW)
System
Cooling plant Dehum.
Day Date Sens. Lat. Sens. Lat. (kW) (W/m)
sens. plant
Main system Jul 16:30 5.07 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 5.33 124.81
Auxiliary Mech Vent May 00:30 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 n/a
6. Room Sensible Cooling and Air Flow Rates
6.1 System: Main system
(Supply air temperature difference: 8.0 K)
Room Peak Peak Space conditioning sensible (kW) Air flow rate (l/s)
Test Room Jul 16:30 1.5 160

All rooms in system 5.2 541.4
7. Room Cooling Plant Loads

Peak Load (kW)
Air temp.
Room Cooling plant Dehumidification Cooling + dehum
Day Date (C)
sensible plant plant
Test Room Jul 16:30 23.00 1.54 0.00 1.54
Test Room Jul 14:30 23.00 1.24 0.00 1.24
Test Room Jul 16:30 23.00 1.44 0.00 1.44
Test Room Jul 15:30 23.00 1.00 0.00 1.00

5. General Settings
General settings for Vista can be set using the Settings menu items.
5.1. Graph Line Colours

This menu item executes the dialogue shown below:
From here we can customise the colour for each variable that is to be displayed
in the graph.
5.2. Units Display

By default, the units are displayed in metric format. To display then in an
alternative format, select the desired format from the main Virtual Environment
menu (Settings -> Preferences -> Units):
5.3. Automatic Graph Saving

See section 3.3 Multiple Room Graph Plotter.

6. VistaPro
6.1. Variable Browser
As of VE2014, a new hybrid layout, which takes the best from Vista and old VistaPro layouts has
been created. This should mean browsing for variables is even easier. As an overview, the new
variable browser is undockable, resizable, and remembers exactly where you left it. You can collapse
or resize the file and category controls to increase the amount of space for displaying variables. If
thats still not enough space, increase the width of the browser so the variable list becomes multi-
column just like in Vista. The wider the browser the more columns youll see.

6.1.1. General
As you can see the new layout is somewhat different from the old one. It has been reorganized to
provide a better top-down work flow. The variable tree has been split in two. The new tree only
shows the available levels of data decomposition so that you can quickly show or hide the variables
you are interested in. The variable list behaves much like the one in Vista with the added benefit of
being able to expand/collapse individual levels and a few extra options using the new right-click
menu. As mentioned previously the variable list is multi-column. When it is resized, it will
automatically adjust to show as many columns as possible. Simply click and drag on the edge of the
variable browser to resize the window.
The whole variable browser is dockable, allowing you to have it as a standalone window or fixed on
whatever side of the model view you prefer. You can undock the browser using the gripper bar or
undock button shown below.
Using the gripper bar, you can drag the browser to or from the left or right hand side of the view.
When undocked you can double-click on the title bar to quickly dock the browser again. Alternatively,
just drag the browser back into place. The browser remembers the last size and position of when it
was docked and undocked, then restores itself when running the VE again or switching back into
VistaPro view.

6.1.2. Files
The files list shows you all results files available for the current project. Selecting different options in
the combobox will change what types of results files are displayed in the list. If you need to see more
files listed at once you can resize the list using the small gripper located at the bottom of the
control. Once youre done selecting files, you can collapse (or expand) the files section using the
arrows .
6.1.3. Categories
The category tree shows you all the available data levels for all files in the list. Use the tree to turn on
the levels you want to see and populate the variables list. A right click menu also provides you with
extra functionality. If you need to see more levels listed at once you can resize the tree using the
small gripper located at the bottom of the control. Once youre done selecting levels, you can
collapse (or expand) the categories section using the arrows .
To the top right of the tree, there is the Presets button. With the button you can turn on or off all
levels, as well as select, manage, or save user presets via the drop down.
6.1.3.1. Category Presets
The presets drop down menu allows you to save the currently checked data levels as a preset or
manage any presets you already have. Presets are global meaning they are not tied to a specified
project.
Upon saving a preset you will be prompted to enter a name. Once entered, the preset will show up in
the drop down menu and can be used straight away. Note the save option will be disabled until you
check more than one data level.

When managing presets, you will be presented with the dialog pictured above. Using the dialog you
can create a new preset ( ), as well as modify or delete ( ) a current preset. You can also
rename a preset by double clicking on it in the list. Any new or modified presets will show up as red in
the list. If you want to undo any changes you have made to a preset you can use the revert button (
) to put it back to its original state.
If you find all data levels arent shown for your preset, or you want to create a preset using levels that
arent available to your current project, you can use the Show All Levels option in the trees right click
menu.
6.1.4. Variables
The variables list shows you all the available variables for the data levels you have selected. Use the
list to select the variables you want to interrogate or visualise. Each data level can be collapsed (or
expanded). Pinning an item stops it being removed from the list due to filtering or data level selection.
A right click menu also provides you with extra functionality.

The variable list can be filtered using the edit box to the top of the list. Hover over the edit box to see
how to use filters. Type a query, then hit enter (or press the Filter button) to filter the list of variables.
The Filter button also allows you to select, manage, or save user presets via the drop down. Once
you have entered a filter you can clear it using the X button as pictured above. The last 10 queries
entered are shown in the drop down list.
To the top right of the tree, there is the Selections Presets button. With the button you can select or
deselect all variables, as well as select, manage, or save user presets via the drop down.
6.1.4.1. Filter Presets
The presets drop down menu allows you to save the currently applied filter as a preset or manage any
presets you already have. Presets are global meaning they are not tied to a specified project.
the drop down menu and can be used straight away.

) to put it back to its original state. Note multi-query inputs (i.e. using ?), will show up in the
preset dialog on separate lines.
When you use a filter preset the name of the preset will show up in the filter edit box / most recent list
in purple to signify the difference between a normal query.
6.1.4.2. Selection Presets
The presets drop down menu allows you to save the currently selected variables as a preset or
manage any presets you already have. Presets are global meaning they are not tied to a specified
project.
the drop down menu and can be used straight away.

) to put it back to its original state.
If you find all variables arent shown for your preset, or you want to create a preset using variables
that arent available to your current project, you can use the Show All Variables option in the trees
right click menu.
The old VE Multiple selection presets are now accessed via the Selection Presets drop down menu.
If you find this is a bit out of the way, you can display the selection presets in the variables list by
turning on the Show presets in list option. This will display the presets at the top of each data level in
the list as pictured above. The option you choose persists between different VE runs.
6.2. Analysis Toolbar
Below is a brief description of each button on the analysis toolbar.

Note: some features are described in more detail elsewhere in this document.

Open a results file Allows you to add a results file to the list of files to
interrogate. This is useful for when you have results files
out with the projects vista folder.
Results file properties Provides you with a report summarising what data has
been recorded in the selected results file.
Select object Enabling this allows you to select objects within the model
view.
Layer Properties Brings up the layers dialog which allows you to modify the
name and colour of each individual layer as well as what
ones are visible.
Heating and cooling report Generates a heating and cooling report based on the
selected results file. This allows you to view building
energy, CO2, comfort and other relevant information at a
glance.
Tariff Analysis Allows you to performance tariff analysis for costing the
running of you building based on the selected results file.
Graph Displays a straightforward plot of the currently selected
data as a graph.
Multiple-room graph plotter Allows you to automatically plot several rooms and output
each graph to disk.
Table Displays a data table of values for the currently selected
data.
Snapshot Shows the value of any selected variable for the date/time
specified as a data table.
Synopsis (min/mean/max) Displays a data table for the selected data in terms of
minimum, mean and maximum values, over the currently
selected time period.
Range tests Allows you to test for certain conditions being met and how
frequently specified limits are exceeded.
Monthly totals Displays as a table the total of all data values over a
calendar month.
Peak time table Shows the peak date time and value of the selected
variable(s) in a table.
Peak day table Similar to above, except that it shows all the values for the
peak day.
Peak day graph Shows you the peak day results as a graph.
Peak day graph (Auto save) Same as above, but also saves the chart to disk under the
projects Vista/Graphs folder.
XY Plot Similar to the normal plot but uses the new charting tool
which allows you to perform highlighting/analysis.
XY stacked plot Displays a graph plot using the new charting tool where all
variables with the same units are merged together.
Bar stack (+/-) Similar to the stacked plot but displays monthly/daily totals
as a bar chart. Allows items to be display below the x-axis;
this is typically used for heat gains / heat losses, heating /
cooling loads etc.
Bar stack (absolute) Similar to the bar stack above however all items are above
the x-axis; i.e. theres no negative values.
Bar side by side Allows you to compare several files as a side-by-side bar
chart.
Donut chart A donut chart which combines all variables with the same
units in one visual display for fractional contribution
analysis.
Colour Gradient A colour coded data table which displays the selected
results in compact form.
Value Gradient Similar to above but displays a more detailed table with the
actual values preset.
3D Graph Displays the selected variables as a 3D graph for the
specified date/time range.
Comfort settings Brings up the Comfort dialog which allows you to define

the parameters used in comfort analysis.
MacroFlo arrows Allows you to visualise airflow results obtained from
Apache MacroFlo calculations on each opening in your
model.
Variable colour scale Allows you to visualise room level results on your model by
applying a colour scale.
Visual Analysis (Model Viewer II) Similar to the old viewer feature above but displayed using
Model Viewer II.
MacroFlo Arrows (Model Viewer II) Similar to the old viewer feature above but displayed using
Model Viewer II.
Find node Allows you find an HVAC node by its number. Useful for
when you have a large HVAC network to look through.
6.3. Vista Bar
The Vista Bar allows you change how selected variables are displayed / combined as well as the
date/time you wish to interrogate. More details below.
6.3.1. Selected Variables List
The selected variables list displays all variables you have selected in the variables browser.
These variables are the ones which will be used for charting/plotting and visual analysis display.
Selecting the Details option allows you to see and modify parameters used for analysis.
Limits (shading):
Refer to the lower and upper limits used to generate the colours applied to your model.
Division:
Allows you divide room level variable results by area or volume.
6.3.2. Combine Options
The combine functionality allows to you to combine multiple variables in certain ways.
Openings:
This option allows you to combine all opening results in the same surface to provide a single
output for each selected variable(s).
Rooms:
This option allows you to combine all room level variable results to provide a single output for
all the selected rooms.
Note: If your room browser is in a grouping scheme mode, for example Floors or Types,
then results will be combined by all selected rooms in each room group.
Variables:
This option allows you to combine variable results that have the same units.

6.3.3. Display Options
The Options button brings up the display options dialog which allows you to modify/customize the
way the visual analysis features in Model Viewer I & II work.
6.3.3.1. MacroFlo
These options control the way MacroFlo arrows are displayed in Model Viewer I.
6.3.3.2. Wind Rose Settings
These options control the way Wind Rose are displayed in Model Viewer I.
6.3.3.3. Wind Rose Graphics
These options control the way Wind Rose are displayed in Model Viewer I.

6.3.3.4. Variable Colour Scale
These options control the way variable shading works in Model Viewer I & II.
Note: Make windows opaque is available from .
6.3.4. Date / Time Selection
This allows you to select the date range used in charting/plotting as well as the individual time step
used in visual analysis. You can select a date range using the months list or the calendar. A time
step can be selected using the next/previous day/time buttons as well as the slider which can be used
to easily go through the entire selected date range.
6.4. Custom Variables
This new feature allows you to create custom post-process variables using the standard set of
variables output in Apache results files. Custom variables are just other variables combined in some
form to produce another output. They are generic meaning they are not linked to any specific rooms,
surfaces, openings, system, component or HVAC object. This allows you to create variables that can
be used across multiple projects.
Managing your custom variables can be done in two ways; through the VistaPro menu, or via the
variable list right-click menu.

When managing variables, you will be presented with the dialog pictured above. Using the dialog you
can create a new variable ( ), as well as modify or delete ( ) a current variable. You can also
rename a variable by double clicking on it in the list. Any new or modified variables will show up as
red in the list. If you want to undo any changes you have made to a variable you can use the revert
button ( ) to put it back to its original state. You can also create a new variable based on another
one using the copy button ( ).
Another way to create a new variable is to select one or more variables in the list, right-click and
select the Create Custom Variable option. This will bring up the Manage Custom Variables dialog
prefilled with your selected variables, an expression similar to A + B , and a name.
Once you have created a new custom variable, it will show up in the variable list as purple.
Note: If you press Alt + LMB to select the custom variable it will additionally select all of its input
variables and clear any previous selections made.
Valid Apache HVAC HVAC

Combinations Weather Building Room Surface Opening Process Component
What / With System Comp. Node
Weather
Building
Room
Surface
Opening
Apache

System
HVAC Comp.
HVAC Node
Process
Component
Although the variables are generic, there are still some rules/restrictions imposed.
Only certain levels of decomposition can be combined. See the matrix above.
Custom variables can reference other custom variables as input.
A maximum of 26 input variables (i.e. A to Z) can be used.
If all input variables have the same unit type, the default output unit type will be the same. If
they are different the output unit type will default to Number. This can be changed at any
time using the dropdown list. Note: Any unit types can be combined, so it is up to you (the
user) to produce a sensible output variable and corresponding unit type.
The lowest level of decomposition determines what level of decomposition your output
variable will be. For example, a variable which includes Weather, Building, and Room
variables will be a Room level output.
If the output level of decomposition has sub levels (i.e. Loads, Energy Carbon, Misc.) you can
specify the actual level using the dropdown.
Only HVAC Component variables of the same component type can be combined.
The Combine options (Rooms, Variables, Openings) in VistaPro are not supported.
Input variables must be from the same file. Referencing variables from different files will not
produce any output.

Below is a diagram detailing the various elements of the Manage Custom variables dialog.
As you can see there are various elements attributed to entering your mathematical expression.
Upon entering your expression, the validation icon will change to indicate whether everything is ok, or
there are some errors within your expression.
Heres a quick overview of how to enter expressions.
Reference your input variables by using the assigned letter (A to Z).
Combine variables using operators or functions.
o Arithmetic and relational operators are supported.
o Numerical and logical functions are supported.
You can input constants (PI, NAN, etc.), model constants (e.g. Room Area/Volume), or even
just enter numbers directly.
For more detailed information on expressions click here.
6.5. Visualisation
6.5.1. MacroFlo Arrows
Airflow results obtained from MacroFlo calculations are now visualised with arrows and values on
each opening.

6.5.2. Variable Shading

6.5.3. Wind Rose
A visual representation of the main wind directions for the chosen location. View settings for the wind
rose can be adjusted in Options dialog.

7. Vista Variables
The meanings of the Vista variables are defined below. Any variables appearing
in Vista that are not listed here are obsolete variables generated by earlier
versions of the software, and are identified as such by the tag (obs) in the
variable name.
7.1. Weather Variables

Dry-bulb temperature: The external air temperature measured in a standard
meteorological screen.
Wet-bulb temperature: The temperature measured by a wet-bulb thermometer
in a standard meteorological screen.
External dew-point temperature: The dew-point temperature of the external air
(the temperature at which the air would become saturated if cooled)
Wind direction: The direction from which the wind is blowing, measured
clockwise from true north.
The wind speed measured at a height of 10m above the ground.
Direct radiation: The intensity (irradiance) of the solar beam emanating from the
sun's disc and the region of sky immediately around it, measured perpendicular
to the beam.
Diffuse radiation: The intensity (irradiance) of solar radiation emanating from
the sky, excluding that portion immediately around the sun, measured on the
horizontal plane.
Global radiation: The intensity (irradiance) of solar radiation falling on the
horizontal plane.
Solar altitude: The angular elevation of the centre of the sun's disc above the
horizontal plane.
Solar azimuth: The horizontal angle between the vertical plane containing the
centre of the sun's disc and the vertical plane running in a true north-south
direction, measured clockwise from true north.
Cloud cover: The proportion of the sky covered by cloud.
Atmospheric pressure: The pressure exerted by the atmosphere.
External relative humidity: The relative humidity of the external air (water
vapour pressure expressed as a percentage of saturated vapour pressure)
External moisture content: The moisture content of the external air (mass of
water vapour expressed as a fraction of mass of dry air)

7.2. Model Level Variables
These variables are accessed by clicking on Model in the browser. They are
organized in three groups: Loads, Energy and Carbon.
7.2.1. Loads
Room heating plant sens. load: The sum of the room heating plant sensible loads
for all rooms in the building.
ApHVAC room units heating load: When an ApacheHVAC system is in use, the
sum of the heating loads on all radiators and direct acting heaters.
Room hum. plant load: The sum of the room humidification plant sensible loads for
all rooms in the building.
System air heating load: The total of the system air heating loads for all Apache
Systems.
Aux vent heating load: The total auxiliary ventilation heating load for the building
(handled by Apache Systems).
ApHVAC heating coils load: When an ApacheHVAC system is in use, the sum of
the heating loads on all heating coils.
ApHVAC steam humidifiers load: When an ApacheHVAC system is in use, the
sum of the loads on all steam humidifiers.
Boilers load: The sum of the loads (outputs) for all boilers (in both Apache Systems
and ApacheHVAC systems).
ApHVAC heat pumps load: When an ApacheHVAC system is in use, the sum of the
loads on all heat pumps.
Room cooling plant sens. load: The sum of the room cooling plant sensible loads
for all rooms in the building.
ApHVAC room units cooling load: When an ApacheHVAC system is in use, the
sum of the cooling loads on all direct acting coolers and chilled beams.
Room dehum. plant load: The sum of the dehumidification plant sensible loads for
all rooms in the building.
System air sens. clg load: The total of the system air sensible cooling loads for all
Apache Systems.
System air lat. clg. load: The total of the system air latent cooling loads for the
building (handled by Apache Systems).
Aux vent sens. clg. load: The total auxiliary ventilation sensible cooling load for the
Aux vent lat. clg. load: The total auxiliary ventilation latent cooling loads for the
ApHVAC cooling coils load: When an ApacheHVAC system is in use, the sum of
the cooling loads on all cooling coils (including any latent component).
Chillers load: The sum of the loads (outputs) for all chillers (in both Apache Systems
ApHVAC recovered sensible heat: When an ApacheHVAC system is in use, the
net sensible heat (or if negative, net sensible cooling) recovered by heat recovery
components.
ApHVAC recovered latent heat: When an ApacheHVAC system is in use, the net
latent heat (or if negative, net latent cooling) recovered by heat recovery
components.
DHW heating demand: The total DHW heating demand at the hot water outlets (i.e.
excluding pipe and tank losses) calculated on the basis of a 50K temperature rise
from the cold water main.
CH[C]P generated heat: The heat contributed by the CHP plant, if present. This

heat is assumed to be input at the same point as heat from boilers i.e. upstream of
distribution losses.
7.2.2. Energy
Boilers energy: The total energy consumption for boilers (in both Apache Systems
Chillers energy: The total energy consumption for chillers (in both Apache Systems
ApHVAC direct acting heaters energy: When an APhvac system is in use, the
energy consumption for direct acting heaters.
ApHVAC direct acting coolers energy: When an APhvac system is in use, the
energy consumption for by direct acting coolers (direct acting heaters working in
cooling mode).
ApHVAC heat pumps energy: When an APhvac system is in use, the energy
consumption for heat pumps.
ApHVAC fans energy: The total energy consumption for fans (in both Apache
Systems and ApacheHVAC systems).
ApHVAC pumps energy: The total energy consumption for central plant pumps (in
both Apache Systems and ApacheHVAC systems).
ApHVAC HR & spray pumps energy: When an APhvac system is in use, the total
energy consumption for heat recovery components and spray pumps.
Ap Sys fans/pumps/ctrls energy: Energy consumed by fans, pumps and controls
within Apache Systems. Includes auxiliary energy, chiller heat rejection pump energy,
and pump energy associated with DHW and solar water heating systems.
PV generated electricity: Electricity generated by a photovoltaic system, if present.
Negative by convention.
Wind generated electricity: Electricity generated by a wind turbine, if present.
CHP energy consumption: The energy consumed by the CHP plant, if present. This
includes energy associated with space heating, domestic hot water and absorption
cooling.
CHP generated electricity: Electricity generated by a CHP system, if present.
System electricity: The system electrical energy consumption.

System <fuel>: The system energy consumption associated with the named fuel. In
the case of grid displaced electricity includes a negative contribution from any
electricity generated by PV, wind turbine and CHP systems.
Total system energy: The total system energy consumption, calculated as the sum
of the energy consumptions for system components, or alternatively as the sum of
system fuel consumptions. Includes a negative contribution from any electricity
generated by PV, wind turbine and CHP systems.
Equipment electricity: Electrical energy consumption associated with equipment

gains (internal gains excluding lighting). This variable is not reduced by electricity
generation by PV, wind turbines and CHP systems
Equipment <fuel>: Energy consumption associated with equipment gains (internal
gains excluding lighting) using the named fuel. This variable is not reduced by
electricity generation by PV, wind turbines and CHP systems
Total equipment energy: Total energy consumption associated with equipment
gains (internal gains excluding lighting). This variable is not reduced by electricity
generation by PV, wind turbines and CHP systems
Lights electricity: Electrical energy consumption associated with lighting. This

variable is not reduced by electricity generation by PV, wind turbines and CHP
systems.
Lights <fuel>: Energy consumption associated with lighting. This variable is not
reduced by electricity generation by PV, wind turbines and CHP systems.
Total lights energy: Total energy consumption associated with lighting. This variable
is not reduced by electricity generation by PV, wind turbines and CHP systems.
Total electricity: Total electrical energy consumption for systems, lights and small
power. This variable is not reduced by electricity generation by PV, wind turbines and
CHP systems.
Total <fuel>: Total energy consumption for systems, lights and small power using
the named fuel. In the case of the fuel grid displaced electricity electricity
generated by PV, wind turbine and CHP systems the variable is negative by
convention.
Total energy: Total energy consumption for systems, lights and small power.
Includes a negative contribution from any electricity generated by PV, wind turbine
and CHP systems.
7.2.3. Carbon
System elec. CE: Carbon emissions produced by system electrical consumption.
System <fuel> CE: Carbon emissions produced by consumption of the named fuel
by systems. In the case of grid displaced electricity includes a negative contribution
from any electricity generated by PV, wind turbine and CHP systems.
Total system CE: Total carbon emissions produced by systems. Includes a negative
contribution from any electricity generated by PV, wind turbine and CHP
Equipment elec. CE: Carbon emissions produced by electrical energy consumption

associated with equipment gains (internal gains excluding lighting).
Equipment <fuel> CE: Carbon emissions associated with equipment gains (internal
gains excluding lighting) powered by the named fuel.
Total equipment CE: Total carbon emissions associated with equipment gains
(internal gains excluding lighting).
Total electricity CE: Total carbon emissions associated with electrical energy
consumption for systems, lights and small power. This variable is not reduced by
electricity generation by PV, wind turbines and CHP systems.
Total <fuel> CE: Total carbon emissions associated with consumption of the named
fuel. In the case of grid displaced electricity electricity generated by PV, wind
turbine and CHP systems the variable is negative by convention.
Total CE: Total carbon emissions for the building and its systems. Includes a
negative contribution from any electricity generated by PV, wind turbine and CHP
systems.
Total CE ex equip: Total carbon emissions for the building and its systems,
excluding emissions associated with equipment (which do not feature in the emission
calculations for the UK Building Regulations). Includes a negative contribution from
any electricity generated by PV, wind turbine and CHP systems.
7.3. Apache System Variables

These variables are accessed by selecting the Systems browser and clicking
on one of the Apache Systems in the list (but not an ApacheHVAC system if
one is present). They are organized in three groups: System, Energy and
Carbon.

Note that if results from a linked ApacheHVAC system were requested (see
Section 7), rooms served by such an ApacheHVAC system do not contribute to
the variables listed here.
7.3.1. System
Room heating plant sens. load: The sum of the room heating plant sensible loads
for all rooms served by the system.
Room hum. plant load: The sum of the room humidification plant sensible loads for
all rooms served by the system.
System air heating load: The (non-negative) sensible heat required to raise the
temperature of outside air to the specified supply temperature. Only applies when the
supply temperature is specified as 'Temperature From Profile'.
Aux vent heating load: For Auxiliary Ventilation air supplies, the (non-negative)
sensible heat required to raise the temperature of outside air to the temperature
specified. Only applies to those Auxiliary Ventilation air exchanges for which the
DHW heating demand: The DHW heating demand at the hot water outlets (i.e.
excluding pipe and tank losses) calculated on the basis of a 50K temperature rise
from the cold water main.
DHW boiler load: The DHW heating load at the boiler, after allowing for pipe and
tank losses and any contribution from a solar water heating system.
DHW solar heating system input: The heat input from the solar heating system, if
present. This is the amount by which the DHW boiler load is reduced by preheating of
the cold water supply by the solar water heating system.
DHW solar htg system tank temp: The mean temperature of water in the solar
heating system tank, if present.
DHW solar heat input: The heat input from the solar panel (if present) to the solar
heating system storage tank.
Boiler load: The load on the Apache System boiler, calculated as the sum of the
room heating plant and air heating loads (both system and aux mech vent) met by
the system, with an adjustment applied for distribution losses.
CHP heat contribution: The heat contributed to the Apache System by the CHP
system, if present. This heat is assumed to be input at the same point as heat from
the boiler i.e. upstream of distribution losses.
Room cooling plant sens. load: The sum of the room cooling plant sensible loads
for all rooms served by the system.
Room dehum. plant load: The sum of the room dehumidification plant sensible
loads for all rooms served by the system.
System air sens. clg. load: The (non-negative) sensible cooling required to cool the
outside air to the specified supply temperature. Only applies when the supply
temperature is specified as 'Temperature From Profile'.
System air lat. clg. load: The (non-negative) latent load incurred in lowering the
temperature of outside air to the specified supply temperature, calculated on the
basis of a maximum off-coil percentage saturation of 90%. Only applies when the
Aux vent sens. clg. load: For Auxiliary Ventilation air supplies, the (non-negative)
sensible cooling required to lower the temperature of outside air to the temperature
specified. Only applies to those Auxiliary Ventilation air exchanges for which the
Aux vent lat. clg. load: For Auxiliary Ventilation air supplies, the (non-negative)
latent load incurred in lowering the temperature of outside air to the temperature
specified, calculated on the basis of a maximum off-coil percentage saturation of
90%. Only applies to those Auxiliary Ventilation air exchanges for which the supply
temperature is specified as 'Temperature From Profile'.

Chiller load: The load on the Apache System chiller, calculated as the sum of the
room cooling plant and air cooling loads (both system and aux mech vent, sensible
plus latent) met by the system, with an adjustment applied for distribution losses.
System air flow rate: The total volume flow rate of air supplied by the system
(excluding auxiliary mechanical ventilation). In the case of a system of type Generic,
this is the total outdoor air supply.
System air supply temperature: The temperature of air supplied by the system to
the rooms.
System air supply moisture content: The moisture content of air supplied by the
system to the rooms.
Aux vent flow rate: The total volume flow rate of auxiliary ventilation supplied by the
system.
7.3.2. Energy
Boiler energy: The energy consumption of the boiler.
Boiler pump energy: The energy consumption of the boiler pumps.
Chiller energy: The energy consumption of the chiller.
Chiller heat rej. pump energy: The energy consumption of chiller heat
rejection pumps and fans.
System auxiliary energy: The auxiliary energy consumption of the system.
DHW & solar heating pump energy: The energy consumed by DHW and
solar heating system pumps.
7.3.3. Carbon
Boiler CE: Carbon emissions produced by the energy consumption of the
boiler.
Chiller CE: Carbon emissions produced by the energy consumption of the
chiller.
Chiller heat rej. CE: Carbon emissions produced by the energy consumption
of chiller heat rejection pumps and fans.
System auxiliary energy CE: Carbon emissions produced by the auxiliary
energy consumption of the system.
DHW & solar heating pump CE: Carbon emissions produced by the energy
consumed by DHW and solar heating system pumps.
7.4. Room Variables

These variables are accessed by selecting a room or a set of rooms in the
browser or the building graphic.
Note that a room may be served by either an Apache System or an
ApacheHVAC system, if one is present (see Section 7).
Air temperature: The mean temperature of the air in the room.

Dry resultant temperature: The mean of the room air and mean radiant
temperatures.
Environmental temperature: A 2:1 weighted average of mean radiant
temperature and air temperature
Mean radiant temperature: The uniform temperature of an imaginary

enclosure in which radiant heat exchange with the human body would equal the
radiant heat exchange occurring in the room.
Dew-point temperature: The dew-point temperature of the air (the
temperature at which the air would become saturated if cooled).
People dissatisfied: An index that predicts the percentage of occupants
expressing dissatisfaction with the room thermal environment.
Predicted mean vote: An index that predicts the mean value of the votes of a
large group of occupants on the following 7-point thermal sensation scale: +3
hot +2 warm +1 slightly warm 0 neutral -1 slightly cold -2 cool -3 cold
Comfort index: An index predicting comfort within the space based on the
following scale:
1: very cold, danger
2: cold, shivering
3: cool, unpleasant
4: cool, acceptable
5: slightly cool/acceptable
6: comfortable, pleasant/cool
7: comfortable, pleasant
8: comfortable, pleasant/warm
9: slightly warm/acceptable
10: warm, acceptable
11: warm, unpleasant
12: hot, very uncomfortable
13: very hot, danger
14: unoccupied
15: non-sedentary
Relative humidity: The water vapour pressure of the air expressed as a
percentage of the saturation vapour pressure.
Moisture content: The water vapour content of the air (mass of water vapour
expressed as a fraction of mass of dry air).
Room CO2 concentration: the volumetric concentration of carbon dioxide in
the room (parts per million).
Space conditioning sensible: Sensible heat (or if negative, cooling) supplied
to the room by its Apache System or ApacheHVAC system. This consists in
general of two terms: a contribution from the room conditioning plant (or HVAC
radiators, direct acting heaters and chilled beams) and a contribution from the
system air supply.
Steady state heating plant load: Heating plant sensible load calculated under
steady state conditions by CIBSE Loads (heating plant sensible load is
calculated from this by application of an intermittency factor).
Heating plant sensible load: Sensible heating (non-negative) supplied to the
room by its Apache System room conditioning plant or ApacheHVAC room
units (radiators, direct acting heaters and chilled beams)
Cooling plant sensible load: Sensible cooling (non-negative) supplied to the

room by its Apache System room conditioning plant or ApacheHVAC room
units (radiators, direct acting heaters and chilled beams).
Internal gain: Sensible heat (or if negative, cooling) supplied to the room by
equipment, lights, people and other heat sources specified as Internal Gains.
Solar gain: Solar radiation absorbed on the internal surfaces of the room, plus
solar radiation absorbed in glazing and transferred to the room by conduction.
External conduction gain: Heat conducted into (or if negative, out of) the
room through the internal surfaces of externally exposed elements, including
ground floors.
Internal conduction gain: Heat conducted into (or if negative, out of) the room
through the internal surfaces of wall partitions, internal floors/ceilings and
elements with adjacent condition 'Temp from profile' or 'Outside air with offset
temp.'.
Conduction gain: Combined external and internal conduction gain (CIBSE
Loads only)
Air system input sensible: The sensible heat gain (or if negative loss) from
the air system. In the case of an Apache System of type Generic, this is the
sensible gain from the (possibly conditioned) outdoor air supply.
Aux vent gain: The sensible heat gain (or if negative loss) from Auxiliary
Ventilation air exchanges.
Natural vent gain: The sensible heat gain (or if negative loss) from Natural
Infiltration gain: The sensible heat gain (or if negative loss) from Infiltration air
exchanges.
MacroFlo ext vent gain: The sensible heat gain (or if negative loss) from
MacroFlo-calculated air flows entering the room from the external environment.
MacroFlo int vent gain: The sensible heat gain (or if negative loss) from
MacroFlo-calculated air flows entering the room from adjacent rooms.
System air supply: The air supply associated with the system. In the case of
an Apache System of type Generic, this is the outdoor air supply.
Aux mech vent: The flow of air into the room from Auxiliary Mechanical
Natural vent: The flow of air into the room from Natural Ventilation air
exchanges.
Infiltration: The flow of air into the room from Infiltration air exchanges.
MacroFlo ext vent: The sum of MacroFlo-calculated air flows entering the
room from the external environment.
MacroFlo int vent: The sum of MacroFlo-calculated air flows entering the room
from adjacent rooms.
Space conditioning latent: The latent heat equivalent of water vapour added
to (or if negative, removed from) the room by its Apache System or
ApacheHVAC system. This consists in general of two terms: a contribution from
the room conditioning plant (or HVAC radiators, direct acting heaters and
chilled beams) and a contribution from the system air supply.
Humidification plant load: The (non-negative) latent heat equivalent of water
vapour added to the room by its Apache System room conditioning plant (if

present).
Dehumidification plant load: The (non-negative) latent heat equivalent of
water vapour removed from the room by its Apache System room conditioning
plant (if present).
Cooling + dehum plant load: the sum of cooling and dehumidification plant
loads.
Internal latent gain: The latent heat equivalent of water vapour added to (or if
negative, removed from) the room by equipment, people and other heat
sources specified as Internal Gains.
Equipment latent gain: The internal sensible gain from equipment.
People latent gain: The internal sensible gain from people.
Number of people: The number of people in the room.
DHW heating demand: The DHW heating demand at the rooms hot water
outlets (i.e. excluding pipe and tank losses) calculated on the basis of a 50K
temperature rise from the cold water main.
Air system input latent: The latent heat equivalent of water vapour added to
(or if negative removed from) from the space by the air system. In the case of
an Apache System of type Generic, this is the latent gain from the (possibly
conditioned) outdoor air supply.
Vent/infiltr. latent gain: The combined latent heat gain (or if negative loss)
from Auxiliary Mechanical Ventilation, Natural Ventilation and Infiltration air
exchanges.
Aux vent lat gain: The latent heat gain (or if negative loss) from Auxiliary
Natural vent lat gain: The latent heat gain (or if negative loss) from Natural
Infiltration vent lat gain: The latent heat gain (or if negative loss) from
Infiltration air exchanges.
MacroFlo ext vent lat gain: The latent heat gain (or if negative loss) from
MacroFlo-calculated air flows entering the room from the external environment.
MacroFlo int vent lat gain: The latent heat gain (or if negative loss) from
MacroFlo-calculated air flows entering the room from adjacent rooms.
Convective room plant load: The convective component of the sensible heat
input from Apache System room conditioning plant or ApacheHVAC room units
(provided as an input to MicroFlo).
Convective lighting gain: The convective component of the sensible heat
input from lights (provided as an input to MicroFlo).
Convective equipment gain: The convective component of the sensible heat
input from equipment (provided as an input to MicroFlo).
Convective people gain: The convective component of the sensible heat input
from people (provided as an input to MicroFlo).
7.5. Surface Variables

These variables are accessed by selecting a room surface or opening (window
or door) in the browser or the building graphic.

Surface temperature: The temperature of the inner surface of the element.
Incident solar flux: The solar flux (irradiance) incident on the surface.
Incident solar power: The solar power (area-integrated irradiance) incident on
the surface.
Volume flow in: The volume flow entering through a MacroFlo opening.
Volume flow out: The volume flow leaving through a MacroFlo opening.
Mass flow in: The mass flow entering through a MacroFlo opening.
Mass flow out: The mass flow leaving through a MacroFlo opening.
Eqv area: The equivalent area of a MacroFlo opening.

7.6. VE-Compliance Variables
These Model Level variables are created following a VE-Compliance Simulation
for all of the available VE-Compliance regulation frameworks.
7.6.1. VE-Compliance Energy
NCM heating energy: The energy consumed by all heat sources (boilers, heat
pumps, CHP, etc) for the purpose of space heating. This is influenced by the
system load, delivery losses, heat generator efficiency and, where applicable,
ADL2A table 2 correction factors.
NCM cooling energy: The energy consumed by all chillers for the purpose of
space cooling. This is inclusive of the system load, delivery losses, chiller
efficiency, heat rejection pump and fan power and, where applicable, ADL2A
table 2 correction factors. Further, in the case of absorption chillers, this
includes the energy consumed by the heat source (CHP/Boilers).
NCM auxiliary energy: Auxiliary energy accounts for the energy used by
controls, pumps and fans associated with the HVAC systems. This is influenced
by the NCM system type, steady state heating/cooling load, system parameters
such as fan power and pump type and, where applicable, ADL2A table 2
correction factors. A full description of the auxiliary energy calculation method is
given in the NCM Modeling Guide for the respective compliance framework.
NCM Lighting energy: The energy consumed by all electric lighting in the
building. This is influenced by the NCM activities assigned, the lighting power
density, light controls such as photoelectric dimming or occupancy sensing,
dimming profiles and, where applicable ADL2A table 2 correction factors.
NCM DHW energy: The energy consumed by all heat sources (boilers, heat
pumps, CHP, etc) for the purpose of supplying domestic hot water. This is
influenced by the efficiency of the heat generator(s), delivery losses, storage
and secondary circulation losses, solar thermal DHW heat input, and, where
applicable, ADL2A table 2 correction factors.
NCM total energy (ex renewables): The total energy consumption for the
building across all of the Part L end uses: NCM Heating, NCM Cooling, NCM
auxiliary energy, NCM Lighting energy, and NCM DHW energy. No allowance
is made for electricity offset through the use of renewables i.e. CHP, Wind
Power, or Photovoltaics.
NCM heat pump heating energy: The energy consumed by heat pumps for
the purpose of space heating and DHW. This is influenced by the system load,
delivery losses, heat generator efficiency and, where applicable, ADL2A table 2

correction factors.
7.6.2. VE-Compliance Carbon

NCM heating CE: The total carbon emissions arising from space heating. This is the
product of the energy consumed by each heat generator for space heating times the
Carbon Emission Factor for its respective fuel.
NCM cooling CE: The total carbon emissions arising from space cooling. This is the
product of the energy consumed by each chiller for space cooling times the Carbon
Emission Factor for its respective fuel.
NCM auxiliary CE: The total carbon emissions arising from auxiliary energy . This is
the product of the NCM auxiliary energy consumption times the Carbon Emission
Factor for electricity.
NCM lighting CE: The total carbon emissions arising from NCM lighting energy.
This is the product of the NCM lighting energy consumption times the Carbon
Emission Factor for its fuel (normally electricity).
NCM DHW CE: The total carbon emissions arising from domestic hot water
provision. This is the product of the energy consumed by each heat generator for
domestic hot water times the Carbon Emission Factor for its respective fuel.
NCM total CE (ex renewables): The total carbon emissions for the building across
all of the Part L end uses: NCM Heating CE, NCM Cooling CE, NCM auxiliary CE,
NCM Lighting CE, and NCM DHW CE. No allowance is made for carbon offset
through the use of renewables i.e. CHP, Wind Power, or Photovoltaics.
NCM heat pump heating CE: The total carbon emissions arising from space
heating and domestic hot water provided by heat pumps. This is the product of the
energy consumed by each heat pump for space heating and DHW times the Carbon
Emission Factor for its respective fuel.

ApacheHVAC Results
To view HVAC results in Vista, the ApacheHVAC link must be selected on the
Apache Simulation dialog and ApacheHVAC system results must be selected in
Output Options:
In Vista, select Systems in the Model browser, then the ApacheHVAC system
will be visible as the last System in the list, called ApHVAC: <asp file>.
Selecting this will give you a view of the ApacheHVAC network schematic.
The asp filename will be appended to the Vista filename in the title bar.
7.7. Component Variables
This is the default mode and is entered by choosing HVAC Select

Components from the interrogation dropdown list.
Results can be viewed for only a subset of all the ApacheHVAC components,
namely coils, fans and rooms. Those components for which results are available
are listed in the browser and selectable either there or on the schematic. Other
components on the schematic are not selectable.
As in ApacheHVAC itself, multiple components can be selected by drawing a

rectangle, or by using Ctrl-click.
For room components, all the room variables as listed in Section 6.4 are
applicable. For coil and fan components the only variable that is applicable is
Air Enthalpy addition, which represents the load across the component.

7.8. Node Variables
This mode is entered by choosing HVAC Select Nodes from the interrogation
dropdown list. Nodes represent ducts in the network, and appear as numbers
(10, 20, 30). A long duct will have its node number repeated at each end.
Nodes appear only on the schematic and not in the browser.
To select a node simply click on or near its number, or anywhere on the duct. In
a complex network you may find that you have to select within the nearest
component, rather than on the node number, to home in on the right node.
As for components, multiple nodes can be selected by drawing a rectangle, or

by using Ctrl-click.
The variables that are available for Nodes are: Mass Flow, Air Temperature,
Moisture Content, CO2 Concentration, Volume Flow, Wet-bulb Temperature and
Relative Humidity.
7.9. Multiplex Results

Results of any Multiplexed ApacheHVAC system can be viewed in Vista as
normal. Select Components or Nodes within the Multiplex to view detailed
results. Click within the Multiplex then change the Layer dropdown to the layer
you are interested in.

To view the results for multiple layers on the same graph use the Lock
Variables tool then switch layer. Lock the results for as many layers as
required in this way.

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VE 2015 Vista: Results Viewer 2

VE 2015 Vista: Results Viewer 3

The main Vista menu:

Simulation files (*.aps):

Heating Loads (*.htg):

Cooling Loads (*.clg):

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3.1. Specifying Results

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3.2. Specifying Variables

3.2.1. Model Variables

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3.3. Specifying Parts of the Building

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Simulation files (*.aps):

The buttons are (from left to right):

Heating Loads (*.htg):

The buttons are (from left to right):

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Cooling Loads (*.clg):

The buttons are (from left to right):

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4.1. The Common Chart Dialog

4.1.1. Output Menu

4.1.2. Analysis Menu

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4.2. X-Y Chart

If you have a large number of data selected, it is recommended that you

4.3. Multiple Room Graph Plotter

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4.4. Data Table

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4.6. Synopsis (min/mean/max)

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Variable Allows you to pick the single variable to be tested.

Average, Shared hours (logical OR test)

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4.8. Monthly Totals

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4.9. Set Dates

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Click Default Dates to select the entire simulation period.

Any changes in this dialog will be immediately reflected in the associated

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4.13. Peak Day Graph

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4.14. Heating Loads Summary

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