Building Automation & Energy Efficiency

Slayton maintains a leading research program focused on advanced building automation systems that integrate heating, ventilation, air conditioning, lighting, and other building systems through intelligent control algorithms. Engineers develop model predictive control strategies that anticipate building thermal behavior and optimize system operation, fault detection and diagnostic algorithms that identify equipment malfunctions before they impact comfort or efficiency, and adaptive control systems that learn from building performance data to continuously improve operation. The program encompasses communication protocol development for interoperability between diverse equipment manufacturers, edge computing architectures that enable local decision-making, and cybersecurity frameworks that protect building systems from intrusion. Testing protocols evaluate energy savings potential, response characteristics to occupancy changes, and fault detection accuracy under various operating scenarios. The research addresses cost reduction through standardized control sequences, simplified commissioning procedures, and open-source software development. This specialty supports the development of building automation systems that reduce energy consumption while maintaining optimal indoor environmental conditions.

The facility operates a dedicated division for developing digital twin systems that create virtual replicas of physical buildings for real-time monitoring, prediction, and optimization. Researchers integrate building information models with Internet of Things sensor networks, physics-based simulation engines, and machine learning algorithms to create dynamic virtual representations that mirror actual building performance. The program encompasses data fusion techniques for reconciling sensor measurements with simulation predictions, reduced-order modeling methods for achieving real-time simulation performance, and visualization systems for presenting complex building data to operators and occupants. Testing facilities validate digital twin accuracy against physical building measurements, evaluate predictive capabilities for fault anticipation and energy forecasting, and assess user interface effectiveness for building operators. The research addresses scalability for application across diverse building types, integration with utility demand response programs, and automated calibration techniques that minimize commissioning effort. This specialty supports the development of virtual building management platforms that enable proactive maintenance, continuous optimization, and informed decision-making for building owners and operators.

Slayton conducts intensive research into high-efficiency heat pump technologies and thermal energy storage systems that enable building electrification and load shifting capabilities. Engineers develop vapor compression heat pumps with advanced refrigerants, variable speed compressors, and optimized heat exchanger designs for improved performance in cold climates, along with thermal storage systems using phase change materials, ice storage, and thermochemical storage media. The program encompasses integration strategies combining heat pumps with thermal storage to enable load shifting, defrost optimization for maintaining efficiency during winter operation, and multi-function systems providing simultaneous heating and cooling. Testing facilities include environmental chambers capable of simulating extreme outdoor temperatures, refrigerant analysis equipment for evaluating system charge and performance, and thermal cycling apparatus for evaluating storage material durability. The research addresses cost reduction through manufacturing optimization, efficiency improvements through advanced cycles and components, and grid integration strategies for providing demand flexibility. This specialty supports the development of electrified building heating and cooling systems that reduce carbon emissions while maintaining comfort and reducing operating costs.

The facility maintains an active program developing technologies and control strategies that enable buildings to respond dynamically to electrical grid conditions, providing flexibility services that support renewable energy integration. Researchers investigate automated demand response systems using open communication standards, load flexibility algorithms that adjust building energy use without compromising occupant comfort, and predictive control strategies that anticipate grid events and price signals. The program encompasses thermal mass utilization for load shifting, battery storage integration with building systems, and vehicle-to-building technologies for electric vehicle grid integration. Testing facilities include hardware-in-the-loop platforms that simulate grid signals and building responses, along with field demonstrations validating load reduction capabilities and occupant impact. The research addresses market mechanisms for compensating building flexibility, aggregation strategies for coordinating multiple buildings, and control algorithms that balance grid services with comfort maintenance. This specialty supports the development of grid-interactive efficient buildings that function as assets for electrical system reliability while reducing energy costs for building owners.

Slayton engineers advanced ventilation, lighting, and control systems that optimize indoor environmental quality while minimizing energy consumption through responsive operation based on actual occupant needs. The research focuses on demand-controlled ventilation using carbon dioxide and occupancy sensors, heat recovery ventilation systems with high-efficiency heat exchangers, and personalized environmental control systems that provide comfort at the individual workstation level. The program encompasses indoor air quality monitoring and control, thermal comfort modeling and prediction, and lighting systems that adjust based on daylight availability and occupant circadian needs. Testing facilities include environmental chambers with precise control of temperature, humidity, and air quality, thermal manikin systems for evaluating local comfort conditions, and human subject testing protocols for validating comfort and productivity impacts. The research addresses the balance between energy efficiency and health outcomes, ventilation effectiveness for pollutant removal, and adaptive comfort models that account for occupant expectations and behavior. This specialty supports the development of building systems that create healthy, productive indoor environments while achieving aggressive energy reduction targets through intelligent, occupant-responsive operation.