HVAC duct system design using genetic algorithms.

A genetic algorithm technique is used to design an HVAC air duct system with minimum life-cycle cost. The approach has the capability to incorporate standard (discrete) duct sizes, variable time-of-day operating conditions and variable time-of-day utility rates. An example is used to illustrate these capabilities and results are compared to those obtained using weighted average flow rates and utility rates to show the life-cycle cost savings possible using this genetic algorithm methodology. Life-cycle cost savings are minimal for some designs, but much larger savings are possible for complex designs and operating constraints.