Development of a Clustering-Based Hvac Thermal Zoning Method for Building Energy Simulation

Abstract

Many previous studies have used building energy simulation as an effective means of predicting and evaluating building energy and thermal performance. Specifically, designating thermal zones and designing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in the initial design stage are important for efficiently managing the energy used by a building. Depending on the thermal zoning method, the energy performance results can vary, affecting modeling accuracy. However, there is as yet no universally agreed upon method for thermal zoning, and a new thermal zoning process based on quantitative figures and statistics is needed. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to develop a new thermal zoning methodology for use in building energy simulation that is based on clustering. This study used clustering to analyze spaces with the same indoor temperature distribution in a single building and defined thermal zones. The method was applied to each of eight climate zones in the United States. The results showed a 6.21% to 25.47% reduction in cooling load in all areas and an increase in heating load by 3.78% to 13.1%. In addition, energy consumption was reduced by 0.11% to 2.73% in the six non-polar climatic conditions.

Keywords: buildings, hvac systems, Thermal zoning, Building Energy Simulation, Clustering