Evolutionary Algorithm with Three Different Permutation Options Used for Preliminary Hvac System Design

This paper discusses an HVAC system design optimization using a detailed simulation method as well as an evolutionary algorithm using three different permutation options. The detailed simulation method was used to evaluate the objective function, i.e. HVAC energy consumption, calculated using DOE-2 software. The variables for the optimization problem were: (i) grouping of the zones served by the systems and (ii) number of systems serving each building. Constraints were selected in such a way that the limits of the variables were well represented. A comparison of the optimization results, computing time as well as convergence speed was carried out in order to select an optimal solution.