In its simplest terms, artificial intelligence (AI) enables machines to mimic the operation of the human brain. Combined with the Internet of Things (IoT), AI currently has a higher profile than ever. In effect, AI is changing how we use information, analyzing massive amounts of data, and improving decision-making.
The impact of AI is being felt in many industries and markets, from real-time monitoring of manufacturing processes to analyzing medical data trends to enable early detection of cancer and other diseases; from automating online customer interactions to integrating enterprise operations for faster decision-making. Suddenly AI is everywhere.
AI in HVAC
AI provides a new tool to improve energy efficiency, system performance, and indoor environmental quality
In the HVAC market, AI provides a new tool to improve energy efficiency, system performance, and indoor environmental quality. In fact, the changing elements and multiple variables involved in heating and cooling a building provide a challenge that is singularly suited to leveraging the capabilities of AI.
AI provides dynamic new ways to control airflow, temperature, and humidity while promoting air quality and keeping energy costs low. AI drives a Model Predictive Control (MPC) System to adjust controls constantly based on current conditions and expected future circumstances. MPC computes control actions by solving an optimization problem in real time.
Use of AI Algorithms
Static thermostat settings and manual HVAC controls are insufficient when it comes to achieving optimal indoor air quality, the ultimate moving target.
Complex AI algorithms can respond quickly and account for changing variables and maximize HVAC operations and benefits at the lowest possible cost. No manual configuration is needed. Algorithms can even “learn” from the presented data.
energy savings
Newer HVAC equipment can already provide major energy savings and better performance. AI augments the performance of newer equipment by optimizing how it operates and adjusting operations in real-time in response to conditions.
The resulting improvements in performance can help buildings attain certifications such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and the WELL Building Standard.
Managing HVAC variables
AI must balance to minimize energy consumption while providing human comfort for building occupants
AI capabilities can also be used to update an existing system while continuing to leverage the previous investment in HVAC hardware. Variables for any building’s HVAC system include the outdoor temperature, number of building occupants, indoor air quality, and how the indoor spaces are used. Some variables are controllable, and some are not. Among other factors, an AI system analyzes occupant behavior to maximize HVAC response.
Using real-time data from building sensors, AI manages how the HVAC system responds to changes while nurturing a delicate balance of multiple factors. Systems must balance the benefits of ventilation versus their negative impact on indoor temperature. AI must balance the need to minimize energy consumption while providing human comfort for building occupants.
performance optimization
AI can control various components of a system. For example, AI can optimize the deployment of airside economizers that increase ventilation when outdoor air has suitable humidity and temperature for “free cooling.”
It can also facilitate heat exchange between the supply air and exhaust air through energy recovery ventilation.
Addressing ventilation needs
By disrupting how buildings are used, the COVID pandemic highlighted an even greater need for building environments to adapt to changing conditions. In effect, the pandemic increased the value proposition for AI in the HVAC market.
COVID’s emphasis on the need for ventilation to minimize disease spread plays into AI’s ability to balance ventilation with other environmental needs.
predictive maintenance
Flexible employee scheduling and changing building occupancy patterns yield opportunities to maximize performance
Flexible employee scheduling and changing building occupancy patterns (i.e., fewer people working and/or keeping different hours) yield additional opportunities to maximize performance and minimize costs using AI.
For building managers, AI can crunch data to impart better information on the predictive maintenance of an HVAC system. Early detection of maintenance problems can address minor problems before they become major concerns.
AI-based bAC
Minimizing HVAC costs can equip building owners to be more cost-competitive if needed as the real estate market changes. Smart building systems provide a real estate selling point.
Working along with AI-based building automation systems (BAC), HVAC can interface with other elements of building operation, such as lighting and security, to further optimize operations. AI can help building owners comply with any legal requirements related to indoor air quality. As building needs change, AI systems can be quickly reprogrammed as needed.
