Drexel University researchers are developing a VOLTTRON-based automated fault detection and diagnosis (AFDD) system for commercial buildings.
August 13, 2015
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Project: VOLTTRON Compatible Whole-Building Root-Fault Detection and Diagnosis
Planned mixed-use demonstration site on Drexel University campus.
Lead Performer: Drexel University – Philadelphia, PA
Partners:
-- KGS Buildings – Somerville, MA
-- Drexel School of Entrepreneurship – Philadelphia, PA
DOE Total Funding: $200,000
Cost Share: $54,218
Project Term: October 1, 2015 – September 30, 2017
Funding Opportunity: Building University Innovators and Leaders Development (BUILD) Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) (DE-FOA-0001167)
Project Objective
Drexel University will develop an innovative and cost-effective Automated Fault Detection and Diagnostic (AFDD) tool that integrates both statistical process control and machine learning techniques and rule-based methods to achieve a whole-building energy system “root-fault” diagnosis. A root-fault is a problem in a building’s heating, ventilation and cooling system, and its lighting system that can drain energy without providing comfort or value to the building’s occupants. This project hopes to use statistical and analytical methods to improve the operation of the open source VOLTTRON building control software, and provide an automatic way to find, diagnose, and correct these energy-wasting root fault problems. Significant energy savings potentials may be realized through upgrades to building automation systems. These methods and tools will be tested, evaluated, and demonstrated in a mixed-use commercial building on the Drexel University campus.
Project Impact
The proposed tool will be VOLTTRON-compatible to further increase its plug-and-play capability and market penetration. VOLTTRON is an open-source building management operating platform, which allows various building controls like thermostats, controls and sensors to communicate with each other to economically increase the energy efficiency of small to medium commercial buildings. This project is expected to impact a total energy market of 7,306 tBtu, with projected national energy savings of 1,096 tBtu with a simple payback time per installation of less than one year. DOE’s university partnerships also improve the competitiveness of American universities to conduct building energy efficiency R&D and enable stronger university-industry partnerships.
Contacts
DOE Technology Manager: Marina Sofos
Principal Investigator: Dr. Jin Wen, Drexel University