A hierarchical control architecture for balancing comfort and energy consumption in buildings is presented. The control design is based on a simplified, yet accurate model of the temperature within each room of the building. The model is validated against real measurements. The control architecture comprises a first level that regulates low level quantities such as air flow, and a second level that balances comfort (i.e. distance between the desired and actual temperature) and energy consumption (i.e. total energy consumed for the required level of comfort). We show the effectiveness of our approach by simulation using validated models. Advanced control algorithms are considered critical enablers to achieve low energy consumption in commercial buildings. Entire sections of the ASHRAE 90.1 standard [15] are dedicated to the specification of control requirements. Although the optimal control of an HVAC system is a complex multi-variable problem, it is standard practice to rely on simple control strategies that include bang-bang controllers with hysteresis, and PID controllers. In most cases, standard sequences of operations for typical installations are used by control contractors. Each sequence controls the HVAC equipment during an operation phase such as optimal start, safety shutdown and normal operation. After installation and tuning, the building is inspected by a commis- * M. Maasoumy and A. Sangiovanni-Vincentelli are with the Departments of Mechanical Engineering and Electrical Engineering at
Maasoumy et al. REF proposed a tracking linear-quadratic regulator for balancing human comfort and energy consumption in buildings.
Model-based hierarchical optimal control design for HVAC systems
in Proc. 2011 ASME Dynam. Syst
Engineering