Work

Multi-Agent Systems and Digital Twins as a Basis for Smart Buildings with Integrated Sustainable Efficient Ventilation

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Ventilation management is a key component of smart building performance, directly affecting indoor air quality, occupant comfort, and energy consumption during operation. The increasing complexity of building systems and variability in occupancy and environmental conditions challenge conventional static or centralised ventilation strategies. This study presents a conceptual and methodological framework for intelligent ventilation management based on the integration of distributed environmental sensorisation, multi-agent systems, and digital twins. The proposed approach focuses on structuring the architecture and decision-making mechanisms that enable adaptive and predictive ventilation strategies, including multi-source air intake selection (6D ventilation). Rather than providing experimental or simulation-based validation, the study defines a coherent framework intended to support future quantitative evaluation and implementation. The expected benefits of the approach, in terms of improved energy efficiency, indoor environmental quality, and life-cycle performance, are discussed in relation to existing research. The framework contributes to the development of smart buildings by providing a structured basis for advanced, adaptive, and sustainable ventilation management.

Source: Buildings

DOI: 10.3390/buildings16051026

Authors: Carlos Rizo-Maestre, José María Flores-Moreno, Amor Nebot-Sanz, José Antonio Huesca-Tortosa

Institution: University of Alicante

Language: English

Topic: Building Energy and Comfort Optimization

Subfield: Building and Construction

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137