Simulation of a model-based optimal controller for heating systems under realistic hypothesis

An optimal controller for auxiliary heating of passive solar buildings and commercial buildings with high internal gains is tested in simulation. Some of the most restrictive simplifications that were used in previous studies of that controller (Kummert et al., 2001) are lifted: the controller is applied to a multizone building, and a detailed model is used for the HVAC system. The model-based control algorithm is not modified. It is based on a simplified internal model

Ada in AI or AI in Ada. On developing a rationale for integration

The use of Ada as an Artificial Intelligence (AI) language is gaining interest in the NASA Community, i.e., by parties who have a need to deploy Knowledge Based-Systems (KBS) compatible with the use of Ada as the software standard for the Space Station. A fair number of KBS and pseudo-KBS implementations in Ada exist today. Currently, no widely used guidelines exist to compare and evaluate these with one another. The lack of guidelines illustrates a fundamental problem inherent in trying to compare and evaluate implementations of any sort in languages that are procedural or imperative in style, such as Ada, with those in languages that are functional in style, such as Lisp. Discussed are the strengths and weakness of using Ada as an AI language and a preliminary analysis provided of factors needed for the development of criteria for the integration of these two families of languages and the environments in which they are implemented. The intent for developing such criteria is to have a logical rationale that may be used to guide the development of Ada tools and methodology to support KBS requirements, and to identify those AI technology components that may most readily and effectively be deployed in Ada

Performance comparison of heating control strategies combining simulation and experimental results

Different heating system controllers for passive solar buildings are compared on two different buildings.The performance criterion combines energy performance and thermal comfort using the "costfunction" paradigm. The experimental facilities did not allow a direct experimental comparison by using two identical buildings. The controllers were implemented alternatively in one building and a performance comparison was obtained in two ways: first by identifying short periods that have similar driving variables (weather conditions and building occupancy) and comparing the experimental results obtained in both cases. The second method mixes experiments and simulation using a well-tuned model of the building and its occupants. This paper discusses the results obtained using the above methods and shows that both methods give consistent estimates of the difference between controllers, while the second method allows to extrapolate useful information from the limited data available

Examining Recent Trends in Poverty, Inequality, and Vulnerability

Despite the many propoor policies, programs, and projects instituted, the country's gains in the fight against poverty have still been modest. This Note explains why and recommends that a comprehensive roadmap for economic development and poverty reduction based on analysis of historical trends and on a specific identification of goals and targets has to be drawn up.vulnerability, poverty, inequality, poverty reduction, Philippines

Simulation based energy consumption calculation of an office building using solar-assisted air conditioning

To minimize environmental impact and CO2 production associated with air-conditioning system operation, it is reasonable to evaluate the prospects of a clean energy source. The targets of the study are to evaluate cooling energy consumption to maintain thermal comfort in an office building and to point out solar energy to satisfy these cooling needs. Simulations were carried out with three different cooling systems in the same operating conditions to determine as accurately as possible the potential use of solar energy. For comparison purpose, the base case is a classical air-conditioning system (heat pump for cooling, gas boiler for heating). Two other configurations were simulated: a classical vapour compression system fed by photovoltaic panels and electricity grid as back-up and, absorption chiller fed by solar thermal panel field and by gas boiler. In the three chosen locations (Paris, Lisbon and Stockholm), results shown that installing photovoltaic panels on the roof is really interesting from the primary energy consumption point of view

Why Are some Filipino Children not in School?

What are the factors that contribute to the nonparticipation of children in school? Who are the ones accountable to this complicating issue? This Note identifies some factors and looks deeper into each of them.poverty, education, Philippines, carbon tax, carbon dioxide emission, school participation, out-of-school children

Some Issues on Low Participation Rates in Basic Education

Despite the various efforts to improve the Philippines` education system, why does this country still have low participation rates in education? What are the reasons behind the growing numbers of out-of-school children? What are the reasons for their nonattendance? This Note delves deeper into the issue.Philippines, basic education, school participation, out-of-school children