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The optimization of HVAC system control affects the thermal comfort of building environment and air-conditioning energy consumption. However, most existing studies concentrate on human thermal comfort and neglects to incorporate air-conditioning energy consumption required to establish a controlled indoor thermal environment within the policy, which results in air-conditioning system high energy consumption. This paper suggests an indoor temperature intelligent control method based on thermal comfort and energy consumption of air-conditioning, and the TD3 algorithm is employed as an intelligent control algorithm to obtain the optimal setpoint that maximizes the joint benefit of the occupant's thermal comfort and the energy saving rate of air-conditioning system. The air-conditioning indoor temperature intelligent control model based on TD3 algorithm is trained by using the experimental data, and the method is simulated in TRNSYS simulation software to corroborate the efficacy and energy saving rate of the method. The results indicate that the indoor temperature intelligent control model based on thermal comfort and energy consumption of air-conditioning has less optimal adjustment of indoor temperature setpoints, which is more stable for the air-conditioning system and can satisfy the thermal comfort demand at the initial control stage to prevent significant fluctuations in human thermal sensation compared to the linear control method based on thermal sensation and the fuzzy control method based on thermal sensation. Besides, the average daily energy consumption can be reduced by 6.54% and 3.37% respectively, when compared to the linear control method based on thermal sensation and the fuzzy control method based on thermal sensation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Two modules were analyzed during Antarctic summer at Spanish research station. • Measured transmittances and infiltrations were excessively high, resulting in high energy consumption for heating. • Indoor air conditions were poor in both modules, particularly the CO 2 concentration. • Extreme weather conditions accelerated the degradation of insulating materials and sealants. • Energy efficiency standards are urgently needed to improve the carbon footprint of Antarctic bases. In this paper, we present the energy characterization of two habitable modules at the Spanish station "Gabriel de Castilla", located on Deception Island, Antarctica. The analysis includes profiles of energy consumption for space heating and domestic hot water, as well as indoor air conditions, which were all recorded during one month of Antarctic summer. Additionally, the measurement of walls' transmittance and air infiltrations, together with thermography analysis, enabled evaluating the conservation state of the buildings' envelope. Upon analyzing all this data, it is evident that there is potential to enhance the design of future modules, improving the thermal comfort while significantly reducing the energy consumption. This will contribute to decrease the logistics and environmental impacts of these research stations, crucial considerations in human activity on the Antarctic continent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Identifying recent developments in thermal-driven dehumidification technologies. • Evaluating critical characteristics including dehumidification efficiency, energy consumption and cost. • Assessing the desiccant properties for thermal driven dehumidification technologies. • Directing future research to address environmental concerns via innovative sustainable humidity control mechanisms. As we navigate an era marked by significant environmental concerns and technological advancements, the search for energy-efficient and ecological friendly solutions is more critical than ever. One area of growing significance is the control of indoor humidity levels, which not only impacts human comfort and health but also the structural integrity and air quality within buildings. The challenge is to control these levels while lessening energy consumption and environmental impact. A feasible solution lies in the use of thermal-driven dehumidifiers, a promising technology that offers a sustainable approach to humidity control. Thermal-driven dehumidifiers have emerged as promising solutions for humidity control in various applications, owing to their energy-saving and eco-friendly features. Thus, the focus of this review paper is to explore the most recent advancements and enhancements in thermal-driven dehumidification technologies. This includes systems based on solid desiccant, liquid desiccant, and thermoelectricity. The study aims to fill the existing literature gaps, providing a thorough analysis of the current state of these technologies, their performance indicators, and their potential for future development. The study also explores the suitability of these technologies for different ambient conditions and humidity loads. It addresses critical characteristics such as dehumidification efficiency, cooling capacity, regeneration heat, and energy consumption. Each technology is thoroughly examined, including its suitability for various ambient conditions and humidity load scenarios. Specific real-world examples are examined to highlight these technologies' practical importance and possible influence in tackling humidity management concerns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Frosting & defrosting characteristics of appliances are reviewed from 2000 to 2023. • Parameters affecting frost formation in 'no-frost' evaporators are surveyed. • Methods for improving frosting and defrosting performance are summarized. • Correlations of j and f factors for 'no-frost' evaporators are summarized. • Major findings and recommendations for future research are presented. Refrigerators and freezers are now common household devices, and they consume a considerable amount of energy each year. The deposition and accumulation of frost on the surface of the refrigerator evaporator is inevitable and always has a significant negative impact. The periodic defrosting is necessary for household refrigerators, which increases the energy consumption and the compartment temperature. This paper presents the key findings concerning the frosting and defrosting characteristics of refrigerators and freezers based on the existing literature in 2000 ∼ 2023. In the first part, the frosting research is summarized. Firstly, the parameters affecting the frost formation of the refrigerator evaporator are analyzed. Then, the structure of the 'no-frost' evaporator is introduced. Meanwhile, the heat transfer and pressure drop characteristics of the 'no-frost' evaporator are discussed. Two methods for improving 'no-frost' evaporator performance are also presented. The second part focuses on the defrosting research, including an analysis of defrosting energy consumption. Four methods to improve refrigerator defrosting performance are also summarized. Suggestions are made for future research initiatives and essential improvement measures. This review strives to serve as a valuable reference for the study of frosting and defrosting characteristics in household refrigerators and freezers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Climate change's impact on retrofitting was tested on Le Corbusier's apartment. • Climate change scenarios project up to 70% increase in summer overheating. • Adaptive natural ventilation can reduce warm discomfort of 50–60%. • Adaptive setpoints can reduce total energy consumption of 20–30%. • Adaptive strategies are particularly favourable in historic buildings. Historic buildings, often exempt from retrofits to preserve originality, require retrofitting due to potential future climate-related indoor issues. For Modern Architecture constructions, there is a need to find solutions that help address the discomfort and heat losses caused by the extensive use of glazing. By analysing Le Corbusier's studio-apartment this paper aims to inspect: (i) Solutions for energy, Indoor Environmental Quality, and preservation; (ii) Climate change impact on them; (iii) Possible adaptation strategies to cope with climate change. Spectrally selective glazing reduced summer overheating by 15%; high-performance glazing lowers cold discomfort (24%) and heating (22%) but increased warm discomfort; shadings maintained energy use and reduced summer discomfort by up to 44%; thermal insulation can reduce winter discomfort and halves energy use but raised summer discomfort by up to 41%. Tests on 2050–2100 climate change scenarios reveal up to 70% more warm discomfort hours. Adaptive strategies can help, with natural ventilation cutting warm discomfort by 50–60%, and adaptive setpoints reducing cooling demand by about 35%. Adaptive strategies can complement traditional retrofitting in addressing current and future climate conditions, especially in historic buildings that require minimal interventions to preserve their historical characteristics and enhance resilience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]