40 further investigate different groups to understand variation in personal comfort models. Impacts and Future of HVAC Controls (Dave Blum) Dave Blum outlined his research work focusing on the building and gridscale impacts of HVAC controls and newly developing technologies. Blum indicated that multi-zone HVAC systems are incredibly complex to control. His work considered a 21 zone VAV system in three different climates with varying operating conditions. Control strategies produced savings between 2-75%, with an average savings of 31%, indicating the significant impact of controls on system performance. Blum also presented the challenges of electrifying heating for central plants for mid-large commercial buildings due to the presence of natural gas or fossil fuel boilers. Oftentimes, both heat recovery chillers and heat pumps are required. In one scenario, this included 20 operating modes and a 45-page sequence of operation for the central plant. One other issue associated with the future of the grid and controls is the "duck curve," when PV generation vs. demands are not synchronous. Grid flexibility is key to address this and model predictive controls can be used to shift peaks. Blum noted that model predictive control (MPC) are better compared to reinforcement learning (RL). RL is weak since it is not necessarily physics based but rather based on interpreting data, while MPC uses a physics-based model. Discussion The discussion considered questions such as how will data, models, optimization, and AI be used to control buildings? Another topic include understanding what are practical challenges in providing predictive and optimal control and how to address them? Blum noted that modeling and simulation tools-- Modelica and Spawn of EnergyPlus-- are key in helping to develop effective MPC. Analytics and Controls (Nick Gayeski) Nick Gayeski presented the last topic in the HVAC diagnostics and controls section focused on data analytics, controls, and the Clockworks Analytics platform. Gayeski, co-CEO of Clockworks Analytics, noted that there are 470,000 pieces of HVAC equipment on the Clockworks systems. Gayeski first outlined the challenges associated with controls and comfort. Currently, 30% of energy in buildings is wasted due to inefficiency and 80% of equipment in buildings fail for non-age-related reasons. In the coming years, 100k HVAC technician jobs will be unfilled in the US labor market. Meanwhile, more than 40% of workers are dissatisfied with comfort in their space. Gayeski then presented the typical maintenance routine for buildings in FDD (fault detection and monitoring). According to the ASHRAE 180 standard, 955 preventative maintenance items per year are required. This is
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