Assessing the benefits of self-learning algorithms for natural ventilation opening controls in Mixed-mode Residential Buildings in India
India is a booming developing country with dense population. This leads to an exponential growth in the needs and energy consumption of the people. One of the major sectors which reported a massive energy need is the building sector. HVAC systems contribute to a major percentage of energy use, it requires large quantity of energy for cooling and comfort of the occupants. Natural ventilation is one of the possible modes of cooling in the building during favorable outdoor conditions. Thus, the combined use of both natural ventilation and mechanical cooling could be an effective solution to maintain thermal comfort.
There is a large scope and need for Mixed Mode controls in the Indian market. While existing algorithms used in controlling a mixed-mode system are unsophisticated. In most cases, the algorithm provides outputs based on a predefined static set-point temperature or based on a occupancy schedule. Thus, this research focuses on the development of control algorithms that enables window operation, without sacrificing on the thermal comfort. The outcome from this research will enable effective control in Mixed Mode buildings.
