STEVE DOTY, PE, CEM 22.1 INTRODUCTION Control systems are an integral part of many energy related processes.

Control systems can be as simple as a residential thermostat, to very complex computer controlled systems for multiple buildings, to industrial process control. Their diligence and repeatability can also serve to maintain the savings of the project improvements for years, further justifying their existence by providing economic return to the customer. This chapter will introduce the reader to some concepts of automatic control theory, followed by practical applications useful to the fi eld of the Energy Professional. Upon completing this chapter the reader will gain a basic understanding of common terms, control technology and control mode categories, basic input and output instrumentation, and the practical need to temper things possible with the skill level of the operators who will inherit it. The importance of system controllability and user-friendliness, as primary design parameters, will be stressed. Basic control strategies will be discussed. Estimating savings from the use of Automatic Controls will be discussed. Finally, there will be an introduction to some complex optimization methods, and suggested topics for further study. Examples are used throughout. The intent of this chapter is to focus on the application of Automatic Controls as a tool to achieve energy savings. Some background information on controls is obviously a necessary prerequisite; however this chapter does not attempt to cover all aspects of automatic control theory or application or to make the reader a controls expert. Less emphasis will be placed on hardware and theory, and more emphasis will be placed on practical applications and tangible benefi ts. A basic background in energy-related subject matter, common energy units, common energy-consuming machinery and systems, HVAC concepts, and the general fi eld of energy engineering is assumed. The fi eld of Automatic Controls is a busy technology with lots of jargon, hardware and software variations and details, and the sheer volume of it can create an air of mystery and awe. If this chapter is successful, the reader will be able to separate the fundamental control concepts from the technical details, and effectively apply Automatic Controls to achieve energy savings. Many of the examples given are for commercial building HVAC and lighting systems, since these examples are common and should be familiar to the reader. Similar concepts and considerations apply equally to other fi elds of endeavor where energy savings are a driving force. A Glossary of Terms provides clarifi cation of common terms used in the fi eld of Automatic Controls. 22.2 WHY AUTOMATIC CONTROL? Regulation: Many things need attention and adjustment to compensate for changing conditions, or varying demands. Examples of this are common

in living organisms, such as body temperature, blood pressure, etc. Process control regulation is really just emulating the concepts of such natural processes. The fi eld of automatic control is similar in that we continually adjust some device to cause a particular measured variable to remain at a desired state. Examples: The need to throttle heating and cooling equipment sized for maximum load that is effectively oversized at part load conditions. Varying occupancy, and systems attendant to the occupants (lighting, ventilation). Varying product throughput rate through manufacturing facilities. Varying demands, and the need to maintain level or full state for water or fuel reservoirs, feed or coal bins, etc. Coordination: Organizing or sequencing multiple processes in a logical and effi cient manner is an important aspect of automatic control applications. Automation: Human beings can make very good manual controllers because we can think on our feet and consider many