Automated generation of a hierarchical building systems control structure

Abstract

Latest developments pertaining to advanced building control systems have led to an increased level of technological and operational complexity of this domain. In this context, the present contribution describes a scalable and automated method for system mapping and generation of a hierarchical and classical closed-loop control scheme. Flexible system model views facilitate coordination and communication across the pertinent engineering domains and support control-related cross-disciplinary work processes. Thereby, the underlying concept comprises a structural mapping of the physical building and its systems to a modular zone concept. With these zones, an automated process generates a hierarchical multi-level control scheme. The proposed approach entails links to the structure of BIM and IFC data models. The resulting model represents the building's physical components and control systems. The conceptual model is of special importance when advanced building control strategies such as multi-parameter control, hierarchical control, and model-based controls are involved.