Predictive control for indoor environment based on thermal adaptation

Abstract

Previous studies show that the indoor environment quality (IEQ) of buildings directly affects human health and comfort. This study aims to predict the change of indoor parameters at the next moment under the influences of the current indoor climate and outdoor climate and control the IEQ parameters based on the human thermal adaption in advance. We combine the simulation and the mathematical method to establish the office building model with air-conditioning and lighting systems and construct the bilinear model of the IEQ parameters and control variables. Unknown parameters are identified using the experimental method. Model predictive control (MPC) based on human thermal comfort is discussed by considering human thermal adaptation, and the neutral temperature is calculated through the dynamic relationship between outdoor and indoor temperatures. Results show that the temperature setpoint is adjusted in accordance with human adaptability, and the air-conditioning, fan, and lighting systems are controlled via MPC. The usage time of air-conditioning and light is reduced, and thus, energy is saved.