UW-Madison is collaborating with Johnson Controls to create algorithms to help make more efficient heating, ventilating and air conditioning control systems for large commercial buildings, according to a university release.
Optimization algorithms will be applied to data collected through HVAC systems at various sites, including the Johnson Controls building in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
HVAC systems record data, enabling managers to make more informed decisions about heating and cooling, UW-Madison Engineering Professor Jim Rawlings, a professor leading the project said in the release.
UW-Madison researchers will use forecasts to make real-time adjustments to heating and controlling systems.
The sheer size of commercial buildings poses a problem to data collection. In order to apply the project across an entire campus of buildings, the control framework of the HVAC will have to be compatible with all building sizes.
Robert Turney, a Johnson Controls engineer, said in the release the work is driven by client interest in cutting costs and achieving energy efficiency.
"I count on the university to be the pioneer in solving HVAC problems in new and innovative ways," Turney said in the release. "It's an infusion of high-tech into a low-tech space."
