Experimental investigation of the effect of flow pattern in underfloor air distribution system on occupants' thermal comfort and energy consumption management

Abstract

Optimal energy use in buildings is one of the most fundamental principles for efficient energy consumption. Therefore, providing a desirable condition for thermal comfort inside indoor environments is crucial for energy consumption control. Researchers believe that in the coming years, close to 35% of buildings will benefit from underfloor air distribution systems. This research aims to investigate the performance of UFAD systems and evaluate the overall thermal comfort of individuals for energy management in buildings. In underfloor air distribution systems, changes in flow patterns and diffuser arrangements invariably affect thermal comfort. According to the results, at a temperature of 20 degrees Celsius, The problem of draught dissatisfaction can be effectively resolved by selecting the appropriate arrangement for inlet diffusers of the underfloor air distribution system. Moreover, to decrease the energy consumption in buildings, with the proper design of diffusers in underfloor distribution systems, thermal comfort can be significantly increased with the same energy consumption level.