A Sensing-Based Visualization Method for Representing Pressure Distribution in a Multi-Zone Building by Floor

Area of Science:

• Building Science
• Environmental Engineering
• Sensor Networks

Background:

• Airflow in multi-zone buildings causes pollutant transfer, energy waste, and discomfort.
• Understanding building pressure relationships is crucial for managing airflow.
• Existing methods may not provide comprehensive pressure distribution insights.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a novel visualization method for representing pressure distribution in multi-zone buildings.
• To develop and implement a new pressure-sensing system for data acquisition.
• To enable intuitive perception and diagnosis of pressure variations for HVAC control.

Main Methods:

• A novel pressure-sensing system with Master and Slave devices connected via a wireless sensor network was developed.
• The system was installed in a 4-story office and a 49-story residential building.
• Spatial and numerical mapping of pressure data was performed using grid-forming and coordinate-establishing techniques.

Main Results:

• 2D and 3D visualized pressure mappings for each floor were generated.
• The visualizations illustrate pressure differences and spatial relationships between adjacent zones.
• The method successfully mapped pressure variations in diverse building types.

Conclusions:

• The developed visualization method provides an intuitive tool for building operators.
• Pressure mappings facilitate the diagnosis of inter-zone pressure conditions.
• This approach enhances the efficiency of HVAC system control strategies.