Research on Optimal Control of Hvac System Using Swarm Intelligence Algorithms

Abstract

Energy conservation in buildings is of vital importance for solving the problem of global warming and energy scarcity in today's world. In this paper, we discuss the optimal control methods of the heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system using swarm intelligence algorithms to reduce energy consumption of buildings. The performances of ten optimization algorithms are compared. The results on test functions manifest the artificial bee colony algorithm (ABC) exhibits the best performance among the focused optimization algorithms. Taking a real HVAC system as an example, the holistic energy models of power equipment in the HVAC system are established and validated. Then, the focused algorithms are used for the optimal control of a real HVAC system aiming at energy conservation. The test results based on 24-hour real operation data show that the energy-saving ratio through by the ABC can reach 33.92% on average. The work in this study will contribute to the building energy conservation and carbon neutral development in the future.

Keywords: HVAC system, swarm intelligence algorithm, Energy conversation, Optimal control