Quantifying the Simulation-Reality Gap in Building Simulations

Despite improved simulation methods, built structures often deviate from predictions, in particular due to assumptions caused by limited real-world data. The result is usually an energy performance gap. This study examines these differences using a living lab and quantifies them using a novel measure to assess the simulation-reality gap.

The focus is on daylight and artificial light. The framework analyzes how the discrepancies evolve across the different design phases – from pre-planning to execution – by comparing available information on material properties and detail levels. This makes it possible to assess the impact on energy requirements and daylight availability.