Development of airflow simulation model and smart variable flow control schemes via adaptive vent/duct openings for efficient cooling and energy savings

This work details the development of a smart adaptive vent (SAV) system designed to be easily retro-fitted into existing centralised HVAC systems with the main goal of reducing energy consumption. Typical centralised HVAC systems are designed to distribute cooling evenly within the served zones, whereas the SAV system utilises the concept of directional airflow to allow for targeted air conditioning. In theory, this allows for reduction of cooling to unoccupied zones, leading to an overall reduction in system energy consumption.