Inferential control - An advanced control strategy to save energy in residential heating systems

The paper presents an advanced control strategy for residential heating systems to save energy and improve indoor environment. This strategy, named inferential control method, is based on Recurrent Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System. In current practice, the control of these heating systems is based on the measurement of air temperature at one point within the building. The inferential control strategy allows for the control to be based on an estimate of the overall thermal performance, minimizing the chance of overheating (saving energy) and underheating (improving comfort) in the building. The performance of this control technology has been investigated through simulation study. The results show that the proposed control scheme can effectively maintain the temperature at set-point, and results in energy savings and improved indoor environment.