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Custom Actuator in EnergyPlus

asked 2019-08-09 07:44:21 -0600

Tanay's avatar

updated 2019-08-12 13:02:55 -0600

Hello All,

I am trying to design a custom controller for the Low temperature heated floor in Energyplus with a controller designed in BCVTB. Currently, I am able to create a simple IDF file using the Underfloor Heating Example in Designbuilder and is able to read and send data to the IDF using the BCVTB in runtime.

Now, the HVAC system fr this example looks like the following image description

What I am hoping to do is that I want to control the water flow into the zone via a thermal actuator, simulating how the actual underfloor heating system looks, manifold with a thermal actuator. image description

Now the question is, How can I create an actuator with Schedule of ON/OFF on the input line that control the flow of water to the hot water into the zone?

Do I have to use the EnergyManagementSystem (EMS) for creating the actuator? and can I use ExternalInterface: Actuator to control it from BCVTB?

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answered 2019-08-12 01:33:30 -0600

Dave's avatar

You can control the flow rate to the heated floor using the Heated Floor - Variable Flow control type available in DesignBuilder - see Program Help https://designbuilder.co.uk/helpv6.0/....

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Hello Dave, Thank you for your answer.

I looked into the Variable Flow control in Design builder. But I don't understand how it works. If I select a variable flow control system, then which component manages the flow? Is it managed by the pump?

I saw that there are flow parameters in Pump - "type --> Constant speed and variable speed", "design minimum flow rate" and "pump control type"..

In the system, I want to simulate, I don't have any control over the pump. It has its own algorithm (provided by the manufacturer) to maintain the pressure constant with change inflow.

Tanay's avatar Tanay  ( 2019-08-12 03:45:20 -0600 )edit

You would use the variable speed pump type - see Program Help here: https://designbuilder.co.uk/helpv6.0/...

The EMS could be used to "fine tune" the pump control if necessary. If you require any more detailed information I'd suggest you contact DesignBuilder's Support Desk who exist to provide technical support to customers.

Dave's avatar Dave  ( 2019-08-12 06:18:14 -0600 )edit

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Asked: 2019-08-09 07:44:21 -0600

Seen: 325 times

Last updated: Aug 12 '19