Influence of sensor position in building thermal control: criteria for zone models

This paper presents modelling choices adapted to the study of the influence of the sensor position in building thermal control. The model is implemented in a toolbox of dynamic models of HVAC components. It must be suitable for the optimisation and the test of controllers and control strategies by simulation and emulation. Due to the convective coupling between the zone and its particular HVAC system, the temperature measured by the sensor of a room temperature controller depends on its position in the zone. Usually, the sensor is situated on a wall or near the HVAC system (e.g. radiator). The influence of the position of the sensor is analysed experimentally and by detailed simulation for different types of emitters. From this analysis, a detailed list of criteria for the development of zone models, adapted to controller tests, is obtained. The criteria are used to develop a new, dynamic model, able to distinguish between the temperatures at the centre and at different sensor positions. The developed model is then applied to closed-loop tests with a simulated controller for the case of a zone equipped with an electric convector. The results are presented for three controller types and are compared with the result using a well-mixed model.