Multiple-zone ventilation and temperature control of a single-duct VAV system using model predictive strategy

Conventional ventilation control schemes for VAV systems cannot achieve acceptable indoor air quality (IAQ). Ventilation control at the zone level is one of key factors affecting IAQ and also impacts thermal control. This paper proposes a multi-input–multi-output (MIMO) controller to control temperature and ventilation of multiple zones in a building with a model predictive control (MPC) strategy. The controller follows the ventilation rate procedure of ASHRAE Standard 62.1 and meets its ventilation requirements. Simulation-based experiments under four types of typical weather conditions are conducted to evaluate the controller's performance. The experimental results demonstrate that the controller is capable of maintaining ventilation air requirements and temperature of multiple zones.