A dynamic model for simulating air temperature and humidity in an air-conditioned laboratory

A dynamic mathematical model was developed to simulate air temperature and humidity in an air-conditioned laboratory. A set of component models were integrated to constitute the overall model The air space was modelled by multi-zone approach. The laboratory air space was divided into six zones according to possible air-flow patterns which were described by defining forced convection pathways throughout the laboratory, with natural convection mixing to adjacent zones. A lumped-parameter model was applied to formulate the building envelope. Based on a few simplified assumptions, other relevant components such as windows and air-conditioners were modelled. Preliminary results indicate that the model simulates the range of temperature and humidity that commonly occur in the experimental laboratory. Further data-based testing is needed for model validation and improvement.