A cloud-based MPC retrofit for HVAC control systems in commercial buildings would involve the installation of a variety of sensors to monitor the building’s HVAC system and the surrounding environment. These sensors could include temperature sensors to monitor the temperature inside the building, humidity sensors to measure the humidity levels, and occupancy sensors to detect the presence of people in the building. Additional sensors may also be required, such as CO2 sensors, pressure sensors and airflow sensors, depending on the complexity of the HVAC system.
The data from these sensors would be used as input for the MPC algorithm, which would then use this data to make predictions about the building’s energy usage and HVAC operations. The MPC algorithm would also use external data sources, such as weather forecasts, to make more accurate predictions. The MPC algorithm would also consider the energy prices and optimize the HVAC operations accordingly, by turning off/down the system during high energy prices and turning it on/up during low energy prices.
The MPC algorithm would also use internal data, such as the building’s historical energy usage patterns and HVAC operations, to make more accurate predictions. This data would be collected and stored in a cloud-based database, which would be accessed by the MPC system in real-time.
The cloud-based MPC system would also include a user interface that would allow building managers and engineers to monitor the building’s energy usage and HVAC operations in real-time, and make adjustments as needed. This would give building managers greater control over the building’s energy usage and HVAC operations, and allow them to make more informed decisions about how to optimize energy usage and improve comfort for building occupants.
It is worth noting that the MPC algorithm could be fine-tuned over time to improve the accuracy of its predictions and optimize the energy usage of the HVAC system. This can be done by analyzing the performance of the system over time, and making adjustments to the algorithm as needed.
Overall, a cloud-based MPC retrofit for HVAC control systems in commercial buildings can bring significant energy savings and improved comfort for building occupants, but it also requires a substantial investment in hardware, software, and labor. It’s important to conduct a pilot test or a small scale implementation before deciding to implement it on a large scale, to evaluate the benefits and effectiveness of the system and make sure it is cost-effective.