Design and Implementation of an Automated Building Energy Management System

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The increasing demand for energy efficiency and sustainability in buildings has led to the development of various technologies aimed at optimizing energy consumption. One such technology is the Automated Building Energy Management System (ABEMS), which integrates advanced control algorithms and sensor networks to monitor and regulate energy usage in buildings. This thesis presents the design and implementation of an ABEMS tailored for commercial buildings, with a focus on optimizing energy efficiency while maintaining occupant comfort. The introduction provides an overview of the research problem, highlighting the need for sustainable energy management solutions in buildings. The background of the study discusses existing literature on building energy management systems and their impact on energy consumption. The problem statement identifies the challenges faced in traditional building energy management practices, such as manual monitoring and inefficient control mechanisms. The objectives of the study include designing a robust ABEMS that can adapt to the dynamic energy needs of commercial buildings, reducing energy wastage and operational costs. The limitations of the study are also outlined, acknowledging potential constraints in terms of resources and scalability. The scope of the study defines the boundaries within which the ABEMS will be implemented, focusing on a specific commercial building prototype. The significance of the study lies in its potential to contribute to the development of sustainable building practices, reducing carbon emissions and energy dependency. The structure of the thesis outlines the chapters and sub-sections that will be covered, providing a roadmap for the reader. Lastly, the definition of terms clarifies key concepts and terminology used throughout the thesis. The literature review in Chapter Two provides a comprehensive analysis of existing research on building energy management systems, highlighting key technologies and methodologies. Topics covered include sensor networks, control algorithms, energy modeling, and optimization strategies. The review identifies gaps in current literature and sets the stage for the research methodology. Chapter Three details the research methodology used in designing and implementing the ABEMS, including data collection methods, system architecture design, algorithm development, and testing procedures. The chapter also discusses the selection criteria for sensors, actuators, and communication protocols, ensuring compatibility and interoperability within the ABEMS. Chapter Four presents the findings of the study, including energy consumption data before and after ABEMS implementation, performance metrics such as energy savings and comfort levels, and system reliability analysis. The discussion delves into the implications of the findings, highlighting the effectiveness of the ABEMS in optimizing energy usage and improving building performance. In conclusion, Chapter Five summarizes the key findings of the study, reiterating the significance of the ABEMS in promoting sustainable building practices. The conclusion reflects on the research objectives and discusses potential avenues for future research, such as scalability, interoperability with smart grid technologies, and real-time optimization algorithms. Overall, this thesis contributes to the growing body of knowledge on building energy management systems, providing insights into the design and implementation of an ABEMS for commercial buildings. The research findings demonstrate the potential of ABEMS in enhancing energy efficiency, reducing operational costs, and promoting environmental sustainability in the built environment.