Non-Intrusive Method for Capturing Occupant Thermal Discomfort Cues and Profiles in Buildings

Nidia Bucarelli, Nora El-Gohary

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

Most building energy-saving strategies are based on thermal comfort standards defined by regulatory bodies (e.g., ASHRAE), which do not account for individual differences or preferences of the building occupants. To address this gap, this paper proposes a non-intrusive automated method to capture the individual thermal discomfort states of occupants over time based on their thermal discomfort cues. The method aims to support the identification of personalized energy-saving strategies toward improved occupant thermal comfort and reduced building energy consumption. It uses a deep learning model to recognize occupant cues from videos. To implement and test the proposed approach, participants were video recorded in uncontrolled office settings while performing work-related activities. The deep learning model was used to recognize the thermal discomfort cues, and a thermal comfort profile that captures the discomfort states of occupants over time was developed. The method achieved a weighted recall and precision of 84% and 96%, respectively, in recognizing building occupant thermal discomfort cues.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationConstruction Research Congress 2022
Subtitle of host publicationComputer Applications, Automation, and Data Analytics - Selected Papers from Construction Research Congress 2022
EditorsFarrokh Jazizadeh, Tripp Shealy, Michael J. Garvin
PublisherAmerican Society of Civil Engineers
Pages185-194
Number of pages10
ISBN (Electronic)9780784483961
DOIs
StatePublished - 2022
EventConstruction Research Congress 2022: Computer Applications, Automation, and Data Analytics, CRC 2022 - Arlington, United States
Duration: Mar 9 2022Mar 12 2022

Publication series

NameConstruction Research Congress 2022: Computer Applications, Automation, and Data Analytics - Selected Papers from Construction Research Congress 2022
Volume2-B

Conference

ConferenceConstruction Research Congress 2022: Computer Applications, Automation, and Data Analytics, CRC 2022
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityArlington
Period3/9/223/12/22

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Civil and Structural Engineering
  • Building and Construction

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