HVAC Control in the New Millennium.pdf - HVAC.Amickracing

Energy and Power Management, Distributed Control TrendsUsing coordinated control sequences, the entire building automationsystem can be monitored and its various functions optimized. All ofthis can take place transparently, behind the scenes, automatically.Information ManagementThis is the highest level of control in the networked system. Datafrom hundreds or thousands of I/O points in a building or buildingcomplex can be accessed quickly and used to assist in decision making.The proper communications architecture is needed so that easyaccess to system information can take place at these different locationsthroughout the facility. The access could take place at a local or remotepersonal computer workstation or terminal.Information management is needed to provide both regulatorycompliance and risk management. Financial decision making is also allowedalong with quality assurance. Automation allows a speedy responseto problems, as well as their resolution. A maintenance managementfeature can also issue and track work orders. Networked controlprovides quality assurance which can be used to identify, analyze andimprove building operations related to both comfort and security.A large part of the building’s set of plans can be loaded into thecomputer. For new buildings this involves access to the CAD (ComputerAided Design) system that designed the building. For older buildingsthe drawings can be scanned into the CAD system and then utilized bythe Energy Management System.Documentation is often needed for regulatory compliance. Thisdocumentation may include testing, proof of performance, and incidencereporting. It is essential in managing and reducing risk. Historicaldata can be used to identify cost-saving opportunities.Hard-wired and Networked SystemsThe earliest Energy Management Systems used devices that werehard-wired back to the computer. A distributed format evolved thatused multiplexed signals over a common wire or the electrical distributionsystem (power line carrier systems). These power line carrier systemssuffered some setbacks from early reliability problems.©2001 by The Fairmont Press, Inc. All rights reserved.