Experimental Study of Energy Saving Potential in Mixing and Displacement Ventilation with Wireless Sensor Networks

Abstract

The objective of this study is to explore energy saving potential when wireless temperature sensor network is used in room temperature control when the room uses a mixing or displacement ventilation system. A typical classroom is selected for this study, inside which a number of wireless sensors will be installed at the breathing level to investigate the temperature profiles. By comparing with a traditional design of temperature control (i.e. temperature sensor is installed inside a return air duct), 22% (216m3/h) and 32% (205m3/h) of supply airflow rate can be saved in fully and half occupied conditions in the mixing ventilation without scarifying thermal comfort. In the displacement ventilation, even though there was no supply airflow rate saving in fully occupied condition, 15% (86m3/h) reduction in the supply airflow rate was achieved in half occupied condition. Therefore, the use of wireless temperature sensor network in a room temperature control may lead to a significant energy saving of the air-conditioning system.