Multiplex lets you flex….
Posted: January 20, 2010 by Kieran, Category:Building Regulations
As an IES energy modeling Consultant I spend a lot of my time creating & populating large HVAC networks, but life has just got a hell of a lot easier for me. The new Multiplex feature in Version 6 of our software allows me to condense large complex ApacheHVAC networks into a much more manageable format with minimum effort. As the demand grows for more detailed HVAC system analysis tools we have been working hard on enhancing ApacheHVAC’s current capabilities in order to meet these demands. I really feel like it now addresses the practical issues that previously existed within the module. Combining Multiple inlets and outlets with the new Multiplex feature allows for multiple HVAC systems to be arranged and organized in such a way so that detailed air side schematics can be mapped accurately on to the ApacheHVAC work space. Creating and assigning layers to a Multiplex is a very simple process especially when using the “assign from room group” feature. Users can now quickly assign HVAC zones to any number of Multiplexed ApacheHVAC networks and populate any number of network controllers with the simple click of a button using a copy and paste command.
I have been putting the new Multiplex feature to the test over the last couple of months on some real life projects of considerable size and have been amazed with the results. Gone are the days of slogging over 400-1000 zone ApacheHVAC networks populating controllers one by one, this new feature increases productivity by an infinite magnitude. Forgive the rave, but I truly believe that through the invention of the Multiplex we will see a shift in the level of system analysis performed throughout the building industry, especially in the UK, this new feature really breaks down a lot of barriers and gives users of all levels and technical ability the power to perform detailed system analysis quickly and easily at concept or detailed design stage.
Kieran
