Evaluation of Optimal Chiller Plant Control Algorithms in Model-Based Design Platform with Hardware-in-the-Loop

This paper presents a framework and results of using model-based design (MBD) methodology to evaluate the benefit and trade-offs of different chiller plant control algorithms for medium-sized commercial buildings including an optimization-based algorithm that can be deployed rapidly with little installation and commission effort. A highfidelity dynamic simulation model for selected building types and climate zones were developed with Modelica and implemented in the hardware-in-the-loop (HiL) platform for controller hardware verification purpose. Baseline and optimization-based control algorithms were deployed in a building automation system (BAS)’s controller hardware with their performance monitored through web-based interface in real-time. Through extensive model-in-the-loop (MiL) analysis with 128 case studies that cover significant amount of chiller plant load scenarios, an average energy saving of 15% was achieved for the medium office building type and 10% for the large hotel building type in selected climate zones. A simple payback analysis was conducted and the commercialization requirement of less than 3 year payback period was met.