Sensor Impacts Evaluation and Verification: Expert Interview Responses

Abstract

The sensor configuration/deployment method has critical impacts on energy efficient building control and thermal comfort. However, traditional sensor techniques for building operation and fault detection and diagnostics (FDD) are not necessarily optimal in terms of energy efficiency and thermal comfort, and their global effects are not thoroughly investigated. In an effort to address and overcome this limitation, a multilaboratory and multiyear project, “Sensor Impact Evaluation and Verification,” was proposed. Its purpose is to develop a framework to investigate the impacts of sensor deployment and configuration on building energy optimization, FDD, occupant thermal comfort, and potentially grid efficiency. The first project task was a literature review to establish a solid knowledge of and a background related to sensor technologies and placement. To accomplish this task, an extensive review of previous research literature was performed. A series of expert interviews were conducted to augment the findings of the literature review. This report summarizes the interview design and interview results and findings. The interview was designed and performed to (1) investigate the current status and limitations of sensor configuration, (2) identify the research gaps and expectations for potential improvements in sensor configuration and deployment, and (3) integrate expert (e.g., researcher, building operation practitioner) knowledge and experience to develop use-case scenarios.