CFD model-based natural ventilation control – the possibility, strategies, and potential

Zhang, Y; Ji, Y

Abstract

This paper investigates the potential of CFD-based control strategies. The simple model of an open-plan office is used to demonstrate the case for buoyancy combined wind-driven natural ventilation. Three control strategies are compared: a feed-forward control based on the steadystate
analysis of the ventilated space; a feedback control with arbitrary control rules; and a transient CFD model-based predictive control strategy. The simulation results show that: (1) owing to the non-linearity of the system, feed-forward control strategy that uses stead-state
simulation results as references may lead to significant control errors; (2) Although even with simple arbitrary rules, the feedback control can deliver slightly better results than the feedforward control, the scope of improvement is limited and would become more and more
difficult to achieve with the increase of complexity of real buildings; (3) model-based control strategy is the preferred solution, especially when means are available for accurate wind speed prediction. The potentials and barriers for the application of online model-based control and the necessary future development are discussed in the final part of the paper.

Citation

Zhang, Y., & Ji, Y. CFD model-based natural ventilation control – the possibility, strategies, and potential. Presented at the 10th International Conference on Air Distribution in Rooms (Roomvent 2007), Helsinki, Finland

• Presentation Conference Type: Other
• Conference Name: the 10th International Conference on Air Distribution in Rooms (Roomvent 2007)
• Conference Location: Helsinki, Finland
• Publication Date: Jan 1, 2007
• Deposit Date: Jun 1, 2011
• Publicly Available Date: Apr 5, 2016
• Publisher URL: http://www.roomvent2007.org/
• Related Public URLs: http://www.rehva.eu/?page=77.roomvent-2007-helsinki-finland
• Additional Information: Event Type : Conference