Thermostatic Load

Controller Overview

The Thermostatic Load controller models temperature-dependent loads such as HVAC systems, water heaters, and refrigeration units. It simulates a first-order thermal model where the load cycles on and off to maintain temperature within a deadband defined by minimum and maximum temperature setpoints.

The thermal dynamics follow:

\frac{dT}{dt} = -\frac{1}{RC}(T - T_a) + \frac{\mu \cdot P}{C}

where:

• T is the current temperature

• T_a is the ambient temperature

• R is the thermal resistance

• C is the thermal capacitance

• P is the electrical power consumption

• \mu is a scaling factor

When the temperature reaches Tmax, the load turns on (cooling). When it drops to Tmin, the load turns off. This creates a natural duty cycling behavior.

Controller Model

class pydss.pyControllers.Controllers.ThermostaticLoad.ThermostaticLoad

ThermostaticLoad Settings

Parameter	Type	Description
Tmax	float	Maximum temperature setpoint (load turns on)
Tmin	float	Minimum temperature setpoint (load turns off)
kw	float	Rated power consumption of the load (kW)
R	float	Thermal resistance of the enclosure
C	float	Thermal capacitance of the enclosure
mu	float	Ambient/comfort scaling factor

Usage Example

["Load.hvac1"]
Tmax = 24.0
Tmin = 20.0
kw = 3.5
R = 2.0
C = 1.5
mu = 1.0