Building Thermal Performance Estimation Using Short Heating Tests
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Solution Overview
Problem
Consumers lack the necessary information to make informed energy-related decisions, particularly in achieving a Zero Net Energy (ZNE) consumption paradigm, due to inadequate methods for assessing individual energy consumption and evaluating energy options and alternatives.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for empirical electrical-space-heating-based building thermal performance estimation using a digital computer, which involves a controlled test to measure indoor and outdoor temperatures, calculate energy consumption, and estimate overall thermal performance, allowing for evaluation of energy investment scenarios and payback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional energy assessment methods are used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision of building thermal performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The building's existing electrical space heating system serves as the test heat source, eliminating the need for external heating equipment. The system uses the building's own infrastructure (electrical outlets, existing heating devices) to conduct the thermal performance test, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
Temperature sensors and data logging equipment act as intermediaries to measure and record thermal performance data. These simple sensing devices bridge the gap between the heating system and the analysis process, enabling accurate measurement without requiring complex testing apparatus.
2Loss of information
If detailed energy audits are performed to reduce unknowns in energy consumption, then loss of information is reduced, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of performing a complete comprehensive energy audit, the method uses a targeted short-duration controlled test that focuses specifically on measuring building thermal performance. This partial action approach captures the essential information needed for thermal performance assessment without requiring the extensive time investment of a full audit.
Solution Approach 2:
The method establishes a baseline understanding of the building's heating system and operational patterns before conducting the controlled test. This preliminary preparation allows the subsequent test to be more efficient and focused, reducing the overall time required while still achieving accurate measurements.
3Loss of information
If comprehensive energy option evaluation is conducted to enable informed consumer decisions, then loss of information is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The energy evaluation process is segmented into distinct components: thermal performance measurement, energy consumption analysis, and option comparison. Each segment handles a specific aspect of the evaluation, making the overall system more manageable and less complex while still providing comprehensive analysis capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex manual analysis and calculation methods with computer-based automated processing. The digital computer performs calculations, data analysis, and scenario evaluations automatically, reducing the complexity of the evaluation system while enabling more comprehensive energy option analysis.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables consumers to make informed decisions on energy consumption and investment by providing accurate estimates of thermal performance and potential energy savings, facilitating the transition to a ZNE consumption model.
Implementation Method 1
resuming operating the portable electric space heater at the end of the unheated period and continuing operating the portable electric space heater for a duration of a heated period
Implementation Method 2
A thermometer located inside a building and an outdoor temperature data source may be provided
Implementation Method 3
overall thermal performance of the building is estimated by balancing the heat gained with the heat lost during the test period
Implementation Method 4
overall thermal performance of the building UATotal can be empirically estimated through a short-duration controlled test
Data Source
AI summary
The overall thermal performance of a building UATotal can be empirically estimated through a short-duration controlled test. Preferably, the controlled test is performed at night during the winter. A heating source is turned off after the indoor temperature has stabilized. After an extended period, such as 12 hours, the heating source is briefly turned back on, such as for an hour, then turned off. The indoor temperature is allowed to stabilize. The energy consumed within the building during the test period is assumed to equal internal heat gains. Overall thermal performance is estimated by balancing the heat gained with the heat lost during the test period.