OptimumAIR™ is patented, state-of-the-art configurable control software that comprises one operational module of the Optimum Energy OptiCx® platform. It boosts HVAC efficiency by offering continuous, automated, system-level optimization of direct digital controlled (DDC) variable air volume air handlers to provide building space temperature, flow, and relative humidity requirements in the most efficient manner possible.
The OptimumAIR platform module, interoperable with multiple building automation systems (BAS), improves occupant comfort and dramatically lowers costs for energy savings between 20% and 40%. Demand-based relational control algorithms automatically adjust airflow to deliver precise output while using the least amount of fan power, chilled water, and heating energy to meet temperature, humidity, and airflow requirements. In contrast to conventional methods that operate systems to static temperatures and pressures—or optimize based on “worst case” zones—OptimumAIR reads the actual required airflow and holistically regulates energy exchange across the chiller plant, boiler plant, and air‐handling unit (AHU) system in real time. This relational, systems-approach ensures HVAC efficiency is always optimal, while safeguarding space requirements.
“Our first customers are seeing the OptiCx Platform with OptimumAIR make a substantial contribution to achieving campus and corporate sustainability goals,” said Ben Erpelding, Optimum Energy’s CTO. “OptimumAIR really amps up our customers’ ability to cut energy and water use dramatically, saving resources and money.”
The cloud‐based OptiCx Platform seamlessly optimizes all aspects of enterprise‐grade HVAC: chilled water plant, boiler plant, and air‐handling systems. Its modular approach allows users to address one system at a time—within a building or across far‐flung facilities—with the confidence that each new module will work with the others to amplify savings. (Other OptiCx modules include OptimumLOOP™, which optimizes centrifugal chilled water plants, and OptimumHEAT™ for boiler systems.). Based on energy efficiency goals, users choose which operational modules to implement and when.
The OptiCx Platform also provides advanced machine learning and diagnostic capabilities. With the Dynamic Sequencing option, the system learns how chillers perform in various operating conditions and equipment combinations, and then determines the most efficient chiller run order. The Chiller Diagnostics option pinpoints equipment problems and recommends solutions. The Predictive Free Cooling option taps real‐time weather data to enable free cooling periods. And Real‐Time Dynamic Commissioning™ detects performance issues and recommends fixes, enabling technicians to perform just‐in‐time maintenance remotely.
