–Energy Transformation in HVAC: IoT, AI and HVAC Efficiency
Digitalisation and interconnectedness are transforming countless industries, and the HVAC sector is no exception. The Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are revolutionizing the way we interact with HVAC systems, while opening up new possibilities for energy efficiency and sustainability. But how has this evolved from remote control of a thermostat to intelligent, personalized optimisation?
Introduction of IoT and AI in HVAC
In its early days, the simplest application of IoT in HVAC was to allow users to control their air conditioning systems remotely via smartphone apps. This eliminated the need to manually adjust the wall-mounted thermostat and offered greater convenience.
However, the real change came with the collection and analysis of large volumes of data and the integration of AI. This translates into near-universal coverage of sensors collecting data 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
AI replaces the need for direct interaction with the system, and not only that, it also anticipates user needs.
People-driven HVAC
As mechanical systems become digitized, end-users are playing a more active role in managing energy consumption in buildings.
Researchers have coined the term "technology-driven occupant behavior" to describe the relationship between occupant interaction and the technologies needed to control energy consumption in a building.
Such technology designed to influence occupant behavior can significantly reduce the energy consumption of systems such as central air conditioning.
The "3P" approach
HVAC designers in different companies are adopting the "3Ps" design philosophy of People, Planet and Position to provide a personalized environment for everyday use. This involves autonomous control of lighting, water consumption, fresh air intake and other aspects of the environment. Thanks to these three levels of design, companies can work to create more integrated HVAC solutions for large buildings. Ultimately, interaction with HVAC systems will become more intuitive, as they will automatically adapt to users' needs and preferences.
People: personalisation
Instead of simply selecting a specific temperature, systems can ask users about their mood or preferences. This enables climate control that is more tailored to individual needs and improves comfort. AI collects data on users' habits, such as:
- Learning from user behavior
- Integration of climate and air quality data
- Adjusting temperature and airflow in real time
- Adaptation to occupancy changes
- Communication and feedback with the user
This seamless and personalized interaction with users through AI significantly improves user satisfaction.
Planet: environmental sustainability
HVAC systems need to operate more efficiently to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions. IoT technology and AI play a key role in optimizing performance and minimizing waste.
Position: location and autonomous control of HVAC systems
Systems can automatically adapt to changing needs according to the occupancy of a space. This is essential for maintaining a stable and efficient indoor environment in places where occupancy can change rapidly.
Remote Control
One of the most notable developments in the HVAC industry, driven by the convergence of IoT and Artificial Intelligence, is the control of HVAC systems. This has completely transformed the way users interact with their HVAC systems, and brings a number of notable benefits:
- Increased comfort
- Energy savings
- Cost reduction
- Positive environmental impact
- Improved health and well-being
AC applications and drivers
Now, thanks to IoT capabilities, users can control their air conditioning units and heating systems from anywhere in the world via a smartphone app. Users can:
- Turn their systems on or off before arriving home.
- Adjust the temperature based on real-time weather conditions.
- Know when it's time to clean the AC filter.
- Customise the air based on their preferences and routine.
- Set the temperature and speed to their liking.
- Stay connected from anywhere.
Hitachi air conditioning controllers such as airCloud Go and CSNET Home offer an exceptional experience of comfort and personalisation.
airCloud Go :
With airCloud Home, you can program and monitor your air conditioning unit with a single touch, even when you are away from home. It is the perfect solution to control your indoor environment in a smart and efficient way.
CSNET Home :
CSNET Home is an advanced solution for Yutaki fan heater systems that offers precise temperature control, historical data logging, weekly scheduling, and remote monitoring for professionals.
This tool allows users to efficiently manage the temperature in their home, make informed decisions about energy consumption and provides convenience and comfort in use.
HVAC Analysis and Predictive Maintenance
One of the biggest challenges in energy efficient HVAC systems is the ability to measure and maintain system performance over time. Through predictive analytics, the system adapts automatically, ensuring comfort and energy efficiency.
HVAC systems can now be closely monitored thanks to sensors installed on different components, such as chillers, boilers, evaporators and pumps. These sensors collect real-time data and transmit this information for analysis. Modern, affordable sensors provide data on temperature, air quality, people flow and more.
Machine Learning (ML) and Deep Learning (DL) algorithms are used to analyze this data.
These algorithms detect subtle patterns and pinpoint weak points within the HVAC system, which have been shown to be up to 96% accurate in predicting HVAC system behavior.
This allows maintenance teams to anticipate system failures and schedule repairs at appropriate times, such as nights or weekends, without affecting the daily operation of the building, minimizing the impact on building operation and avoiding costly damage.
Ultimately, considering the convergence of IoT and AI that is transforming HVAC, providing smarter and more sustainable systems, it is clear that this technological advancement promises a future where comfort and energy efficiency go hand in hand in our indoor spaces.
by Hitachi Cooling & Heating
