A novel indirect control methodology for load-leveling of space heating appliances

Demand Side Management (DSM) programs provide utility companies with a method to shift consumer electricity usages away from peak electricity hours. DSM programs use alternative appliance usage schemes that maintain their usefulness while providing ancillary services for utilities. This thesis aims to develop a linear control methodology that can provide significant ancillary services for utilities without reducing customer comfort.;A prototype enclosure was built and equipped with a heater and thermal measuring equipment. Data was collected during a 17 hour temperature regulation experiment using a bang-bang controller similar to those commonly used for residential heating control. An experimental thermal system identification methodology was developed for online system identification. First and second order mathematical models were developed for thermal system identification. The mathematical models were calibrated using data collected experimentally and used to estimate the net thermal resistance and capacitance using system identification techniques.;The enclosure system model was also used to determine if peak power could be reduced by slowly varying loads utilizing a different type of controller. Two different linear control techniques (using K-Factor and PI approaches) and the associated power electronics circuitry were implemented and tuned in PSpice platform. Both controller systems successfully leveled the load and reduced the peak power demand.;Finally the prototype enclosure was modified to include a linear controller using an available DC power supply and a buck converter power stage. The PI control scheme was used with a 60 degree phase margin for smoother and faster settling characteristics. The phase margin was acquired using appropriate linear approximation of system transfer functions. The temperature response of the experimental system was compared to theoretical responses.