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In this paper a new dynamic simulation model for the building energy performance analysis of multi-enclosed thermal zones, where rigid air temperature and humidity conditions must be kept, is presented. The model was implemented in a suitable computer code (DETECt 2.3.1) developed for research scopes. Such simulation model allows the hygrothermal analysis of buildings with multi-enclosed thermal zones surrounded by larger ones (e.g. display glass cases with valuable artefacts in museum halls, neonatal intensive care units for premature and full-term newborn babies in hospitals wards, etc.). For this purpose, a novel control algorithm, based on a model reference adaptive control scheme, enabling the online adaptation of the control gains, is implemented. Rigid air temperature and humidity conditions can be guaranteed also in case of sudden and rapid variations of hygrothermal loads. Through such new tool innovative techniques and operative strategies for obtaining energy efficiency and indoor comfort of special building spaces can be studied. In order to show the capabilities of the tool and the robustness of the adaptive algorithm, as well as the potentiality of the proposed multidisciplinary approach to the energy-related behaviour in buildings (based on building energy modelling and simulation and control theory), two meaningful case studies have been developed. In particular, they refer to the museums and hospital indoor spaces where enclosed thermal zones have to be kept under stringent hygrothermal conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper details the dynamic simulation of a small, super insulated Passivhaus residential structure, namely The Ohio State University's entry into the 2011 Solar Decathlon competition. This study explores the use of a conventional vapor compression conditioning system as well as the effects of occupant behavior on the parameters affecting comfort within the structure. It adds to the current literature on the subject by presenting a simulation of a Passivhaus and its HVAC system in a mixed climate where cooling and dehumidification are traditionally required. Furthermore it adopts a simulation tool which acts on time scales significantly less than 1 h. It is concluded that the house, while energy efficient, has difficultly controlling moisture levels. In the summer season it is too humid, and in the winter it is too dry. The study concludes that conventional HVAC equipment cannot fully address the moisture and indoor air quality issues that are a result of new building techniques with stringent air infiltration and insulation standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]