Abstract:

High-performance building design heavily relies on computational models that can predict the dynamic interactions between HVAC equipment, air flow and building envelope. This paper presents a coupled simulation of Modelica and OpenFOAM to evaluate the system performance of a room air-conditioner operating in buildings. The dynamic models of the air-conditioner are constructed in Modelica, whereas the indoor airflow is simulated in OpenFOAM. Dynamic system characteristics are analyzed and compared against those obtained with the well-mixed air model. The effects of thermal stratification and thermostat placement on the system energy efficiency are also discussed.