File Menu

The File menu can be accessed from the horizontal top bar menu at the top of the screen.

Tip: see the DesignBuilder Model Files help page for advice on file storage, backups etc.

The following options are available when a file is open:

New file (Ctrl+N) - create a new DesignBuilder dsb file.
Open file (Ctrl+O) - Open an existing DesignBuilder dsb file.
Close (Ctrl+F4) - close the currently open DesignBuilder dsb file and returned to the opening screen.
Print - Print current view
Load results file - load a previously generated ESO file.

Save (Ctrl+S) - Save currently open DesignBuilder dsb file. If no file is currently loaded then this command saves the libraries.
Save without output results - save the current DesignBuilder dsb file without output results reducing the file size. Use this option if you plan to send the dsb file by e-mail or forums etc.
Save as (F12) - save the DesignBuilder dsb file using a different name/location.
Save as template - save the DesignBuilder dsb file as a template so it can be used as a starting point for subsequent new projects.

Merge model data from file - import the attribute settings, components and templates, HVAC system, assemblies and component blocks from a previously created DesignBuilder model into a newly modified one.
Import 2-D DXF floorplan - import a 2-D DXF floorplan into the model for tracing over.
Import detailed survey data - import a survey data file into the model (advanced option - contact DesignBuilder support for more information on this)
Import building from external file - import building(s) into the current model from an external file.
Import assembly library - imports an assembly library from an external asl file previously created using the Export assembly library command.
Import library data - import library data from an existing DDF file.

Export EnergyPlus Heating design IDF file - export an IDF file using options for heating design calculations.
Export EnergyPlus Cooling design IDF file - export an IDF file using options for cooling design calculations.
Export EnergyPlus Simulation design IDF file - export an IDF file using options for simulation using hourly weather data.
Export model image - export the currently displayed image of the model.
Export 3-D DXF model - export the model in 3-D DXF format.
Export gbXML model - exports the current building geometry in gbXML format including layered constructions, materials, glazing and shading devices for use in another compatible program.
Export to MasterClima 11300 - exports the current building data in a format compatible with MasterClima 11300. Contact SGM our Italian reseller for more details.
Export assembly library - exports the current assembly library to an asl file for importing into another model.
Export CSV report file - export a summary of the model in spreadsheet format.
Export library data - export library data in DDF format.

EnergyPlus folder - opens a Windows Explorer window in the folder used by DesignBuilder for storing temporary EnergyPlus files.
Weather data folder - opens a Windows Explorer window in the folder where the hourly weather files are stored.
Library data folder - opens a Windows Explorer window in the folder where library data files are stored.
Template projects folder - opens a Windows Explorer window in the folder where dsb file templates are stored. File templates are available for selection on the second tab of the Add new project dialog.