A Sensing-Based Visualization Method for Representing Pressure Distribution in a Multi-Zone Building by Floor

Abstract

Airflow in a multi-zone building can be a major cause of pollutant transfer, excessive energy consumption, and occupants discomfort. The key to monitoring airflows and mitigating related problems is to obtain a comprehensive understanding of pressure relationships within the buildings. This study proposes a visualization method for representing pressure distribution within a multi-zone building by using a novel pressure-sensing system. The system consists of a Master device and a couple of Slave devices that are connected with each other by a wireless sensor network. A 4-story office building and a 49-story residential building were installed with the system to detect pressure variations. The spatial and numerical mapping relationships of each zone were further determined through grid-forming and coordinate-establishing processes for the building floor plan. Lastly, 2D and 3D visualized pressure mappings of each floor were generated, illustrating the pressure difference and spatial relationship between adjacent zones. It is expected that the pressure mappings derived from this study will allow building operators to intuitively perceive the pressure variations and the spatial layouts of the zones. These mappings also make it possible for operators to diagnose the differences in pressure conditions between adjacent zones and plan a control scheme for the HVAC system more efficiently.

Combined Effects of Thermal Buoyancy, Wind Action, and State of the First-Floor Lobby Entrance on the Pressure Difference in a High-Rise Building

“…Environmental factors primarily include thermal buoyancy induced by an indoor/outdoor temperature difference and wind conditions. The effects of thermal buoyancy and wind on internal pressure difference have been 2 of 17 extensively studied [7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18][19][20][21][22][23], with various empirical prediction formulas proposed [14][15][16][17][18]. The studies showed that the vertical distribution of internal pressure difference due to thermal buoyancy is not only determined by the inside/outside temperature difference but also related to the distance from the neutral pressure layer (NPL) [14,19].…”

Airtightness Assessment under Several Low-Pressure Differences in Non-Residential Buildings

“…Generally, airtightness can play a significant role in building energy efficiency [11][12][13][14][15]. Recently, much attention has been paid to the importance of building airtightness [15][16][17].…”