An object-oriented program that allows the user to quickly build models of complex physical processes by connecting equation-based calculation modules from an
object library. SPARK (Simulation Problem Analysis and Research Kernel) creates an executable simulation program from this network ready to be run.
Screen Shots
Keywords
object-oriented, research, complex systems, energy performance, short time-step dynamics
Validation/Testing
N/A
Expertise Required
High level of computer literacy required.
Users
50
Audience
Building technology researchers and energy consultants.
Input
Calculation modules created symbolically or selected from a library, then connected using a Graphical Editor or Network Specification Language; run-time input such as time step and parameter values.
Output
Graphical display of results for any simulation variable.
Computer Platform
Windows 95/98/2000/NT, Sun Unix, Linux, HP
Programming Language
C, C++
Strengths
Capable of modeling complex building envelopes and building HVAC systems to any level of detail; built-in problem decomposition and reduction techniques give execution times that are 10-20 times faster than similar programs. User-selectable time step allows modeling short time-step dynamics; symbolic input of equations avoids programming; Graphical Editor simplifies model description and construction of customized networks; library of HVAC components and systems.
Weaknesses
High level of user expertise in system being modeled required.
Contact
Availability
SPARK is available in two versions with different user interfaces: VisualSPARK and WinSPARK. Both have graphical user interfaces that simplify building and running SPARK models. VisualSPARK runs under Windows 95/98/2000/NT, Linux, HP UNIX and Sun UNIX and is available free from LBNL. WinSPARK runs under Windows 95/98/2000/NT and is available from Ayres Sowell Associates.
Note that the SPARK software is not affiliated with or endorsed by SPARC International.
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