COMPUTER SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT FOR OPTIMUM HVAC SYSTEM DESIGN

Abstract

The HVAC system design is a complex process. The software used to carry out the HVAC analysis --of -the'-buildings demand considerable 'expertise with regard - to various input variables and their value~as the application type changes. A knowledge retrieval type of Expert System can be developed to reduce the required level -of expertise to run these software. The, dissertation first discusses the basic theoretical principles involved in the development of an ES. Review of some of the air conditioning software packages is also given. The ES developed to assist ASEAM2, an HVAC system design software, provides data for eight different types of facilities viz, office, hotel, residence, apartments, auditorium, restaurant, library, ' departmental/retail store. The knowledge base of ES provides four different data types viz, indoor design conditions, people load, outdoor air required and lighting loads. The knowledge base is provided in twenty 'one different files, which are linked to the header file. The software is developed in the from of project and is entirely menu driv,en.The procedure of using the ES is discussed in details. A case study of an existing building is carried out to calculate Peak Zone Loads and Building End Use Summery by ASEAM2 with the help of output received from developed ES software.