Intelligent coordination of the thermodynamical and air ventilation processes can achieve the necessary compromise between comfort demands, necessary air exchange and low heating costs. A new user demand guided field bus based coordination of single room control and air change rate control is developed and tested for a commercial building automation system. A reconstructed block of 65 flats was used in the field test to show that the control strategy ensures the necessary air exchange in an energy-efficient manner.

Evaluates simple methods for the prediction of energy consumption or fault detection as a result of old equipment in a commercial building in Lyon, France. The correlation between electricity consumption and external temperature was analysed.

Individual heating systems have become more and more common in Italy in recent years, as a result of the development of a methane gas network and of general housing renovation. The research proposed some field studies to analyse the indoor climate for improving the heating system and indoor climate. Aims to correct the management of the heating systems to improve housing quality and occupant comfort.

Describes a project which aimed to develop strategies to improve and control the performance of HVAC systems for incorporation into codes and guidelines. One subtask of the project was an investigation of maintenance procedures, including a literature review, the definition of cleanliness for the major components and a 'new maintenance guideline'.

The project aimed to conduct research on the reasons for pollution caused by HVAC systems. It was found that the reasons vary widely depending on the type of construction, use and maintenance of the system. Filter and ducts are major sources of pollutants, with humidifiers and rotating heat exchangers coming a close second. Heating and cooling coils are less of a problem, as is the effect of air flow. Puts forward a new maintenance guideline based on the existing VDI 6022.

Analyses the operation and life cycle costs of industrial buildings using an energy and environmental auditing process. The results will be used in the design of optimized HVAC systems for the future.

Faults and malfunctions in HVAC systems can be difficult to detect with current tools. The survey developed automatic faults detection diagnostic tools for the improvement of buildings facilities supervision.

Air conditioning equipment commissioning adjusts the variables of air diffusion, induction ratio and Coanda effect to optimise comfort. Outlines the author's views on employing suitably qualified persons for commissioning, and in the case of larger projects, a commissioning manager. Recommends the use of a hood factor for air balance and system leakage diagnosis. Lists methods available for balancing water based systems, with index balancing being the most cost effective. Recommends also conducting pre-commissioning checks.

States that the design team must set goals in order to successfully achieve high-performance, low energy buildings. The energy design process can help to achieve the desired effect, beginning in the predesign phase and continuing through to commissioning and occupation. A good understanding of various strategies, the setting of aggressive energy targets and employing computer simulations all contribute to the process. After the building envelope has been optimised, the mechanical/electrical/control systems can be designed.

Describes a project to develop strategies and dissemination material to assist the efficient application of solar and passive ventilation in urban buildings. Describes the website, aimed at the informed architect and engineers specialising in HVAC. Features design solutions in the form of case study buildings and design components. Also presents a review of how current regulations encourage/restrict the application of solar and passive ventilation in urban buildings.