Intelligent zone controllers: a scalable approach to simulation-supported building systems control

This paper describes the concept of an intelligent zone controller for the efficient operation of environmental systems in buildings. This controller deploys a predictive control methodology with embedded simulation capability. To address the scalability issue in realization of predictive simulation-assisted control systems, we explore the possibility to divide the target building into a number of well-formed sub-domains. Thus, control logic and the associated simulation routines can be distributed and enacted both autonomously and asynchronously. Toward this end, we deploy an original generative scheme for representation of buildings' systems control architecture that allows for a structured distribution of systems' control logic.