| Title |
Comparison of Energy Performance and Indoor Thermal Comfort according to Temperature and Comfort Control in VRF System |
| Authors |
Kim, Chul-Ho ; Jeon, Jong-Ug ; Lee, Seung-Eon ; Kim, Kang-Soo |
| DOI |
https://doi.org/10.5659/JAIK_SC.2017.33.11.53 |
| Keywords |
VRF(Variable Refringent Flow) Heat Pump ; Performance Curve ; Temperature Control ; Thermal Comfort Control ; EnergyPlus |
| Abstract |
Even though the building temperature setting guideline saves energy, it does not take the occupants' thermal comfort into consideration. In this study, we selected a college building equipped with VRF system, and created a simulation model using EnergyPlus similar to the actual building to compare and analyze actual energy usage. We evaluated thermal comfort index and energy performance output based on temperature and thermal comfort control method after we verified the validity of the model. When the buildings' actual energy usage and simulation results were compared, MBE was 4.62% and Cv(RMSE) was 7.86%. The MBE and Cv(RMSE) values satisfied ASHRAE standards. When the temperature was adjusted to 24℃, the thermal comfort ratio was approximately 41%. When comfort control was carried out with PMV 0.5, thermal comfort ratio was increased to approximately 92% by executing cooling, dehumidification, and blowing modes. The comfort control model case showed 5.1% increase in energy consumption compared to the base case. However, 7.4% energy was saved when the temperature was controlled at 24℃ assumed to similar condition like PMV 0.5 comfort control. Therefore, evaluation showed that thermal comfort control allows better energy saving as well as increased thermal comfort than performing simple temperature control method. |