A Large Room Case Study of Facility Layout Problems Influencing Energy Efficiency and Thermal Comfort

The Facility Layout Problem (FLP) is a renowned and extensively researched problem that has attracted significant focus from various areas, including industry and manufacturing. One of the recent studies includes the examination of FLP issues in a large room. Analysing the layout of amenities and temperature controls in spacious areas like libraries is crucial for understanding how they affect people’s thermal comfort and energy consumption. The arrangement of facilities typically impacts the air distribution within a large room. Improper facility layout design might create indoor temperature disparities, with specific zones feeling excessively warm or chilly. Consequently, users are unevenly distributed due to each individual’s differing thermal comfort needs. Previous researchers have discussed this issue. However, after a detailed examination of previous studies, a few drawbacks have been identified in building mathematical models. These drawbacks include poorly organised mathematical modelling, ambiguous or disorganised data collection and analysis techniques, and the absence or ambiguity of variables and constraints. Therefore, this study proposed a structured mathematical approach to build a more efficient, inclusive, and reliable model. This study used a university library in Malaysia as a case study. A well-established and widely practised method for assessing mathematical modelling competency based on previous research has been adopted. Subsequently, the list of sub-competencies associated with the modelling process is utilised as a reference point for constructing a mathematical model in this research endeavour. As a result, the entire process of constructing a mathematical model is detailed, and recommendations for future enhancements are provided. This project is considered a significant advancement in the pursuit of conducting further FLP investigations in large rooms for the greater good in the future, which is part of the PhD research carried out at UUM.