Non-linear optimal controller design for building HVAC systems

The purpose of heating system controllers is to provide thermal comfort to the occupants while maintaining the minimum energy consumption. This paper introduces several non-linear optimal controllers for a single zone heating system in buildings. The system model is based on fundamentals of heat transfer and thermal dynamics. Input/Output feedback linearization, MATLAB/Simulink response optimizer and nonlinear programming are applied into optimal controller design and the results are compared. The study shows optimal controller has a large energy saving potential compared to traditional PI controller.