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HVAC DDC System Design

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HVAC DDC System Design

This practical course provides a simple approach to the design of HVAC direct digital control (DDC) systems and enables students to understand and design various types of control solutions. Practical examples and common design methods for each subject will be discussed.  The course emphasizes critical “Do’s and Don’ts” and accepted rule-of-thumb checks in building automation system design.

Divided into the following categories, this course provides a methodical approach to DDC system design: 1) Hybrid DDC Control systems; 2) Electric Control and DDC; 3) Control Valves; 4) Control Dampers; 5) Electronic Sensors; 6) Practical Examples including Chilled Water, Condenser Water, Hot Water, and Air Handling systems Control; and 7) HVAC DDC Specifications.

Course Highlights:

  • Controlling Sustainable Buildings
  • Net-Zero Energy and Smart Building Automation
  • Proper Sequence of Operations
  • HVAC DDC Specifications
  • ASHRAE BACnet/SC
  • ASHRAE Guidelines for DDC
  • Automated Test and Balance
  • Practical Examples and Real Projects
  • Rule-of-Thumb Checks in HVAC Control
  • “Do's and Don'ts” in HVAC Control Design

  Course Learning Outcomes:

  • Understand the fundamentals of building automation
  • Design and specify building automation systems
  • Determine how electronic control is achieved
  • Examine types of control valves and dampers
  • Comprehend flow, temperature, and humidity sensors
  • Implement practical scenarios of controlling HVAC hydronic systems
  • Know the components of building automation systems

Required Textbook: “The Fundamentals of HVAC Direct Digital Control, Practical Applications and Design” 4th ed. 2022 by Frank Shadpour. Available through Hacienda Blue Publishing.

Optional Reading: ASHRAE 2016 Handbook - HVAC Systems and Equipment (ISBN-13: 978-1939200273) and 2015 ASHRAE Handbook - HVAC Applications (ISBN-13: 978-1936504930)

Course Typically Offered: Live-Online. Please see course matrix as schedule fluxuates.

Prerequisite: Students should have a desire to learn concepts in heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC).

Next Step:  Upon completion of this course, consider taking other courses in the HVAC Systems Design and Control program.

Contact: For more information about this course, please email unexengr@ucsd.edu.

Course Number: AMES-40000
Credit: 3.00 unit(s)
Related Certificate Programs: HVAC Systems Design and Control

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