Mobile Software Development for Cooling Load Estimation and Air-conditioning Equipment Sizing

Efficient air conditioning system design is critical for achieving comfort and sustainability, especially in tropical regions such as Nigeria. This study presents the development of a user-friendly mobile application for accurate air conditioning equipment sizing using the CLTD/SCL/CLF method outlined by ASHRAE. The application integrates the complexities of cooling load calculations into an accessible platform suitable for residential and commercial buildings. The software simplifies the traditionally labor-intensive and error-prone manual calculations by automating processes such as external heat gains (walls, roofs, and windows), internal loads (occupants, lighting, and equipment), and ventilation requirements. It incorporates diverse parameters like material properties, building orientation, and environmental conditions specific to Nigeria's tropical climate. The application is developed using the Kotlin programming language and Android Studio while employing SQLite for data management and follows the model–view–view-model (MVVM) architecture for enhanced usability and modularity. This innovation addresses the challenges of oversizing or under-sizing air conditioning systems, which lead to increased energy consumption, costs, and equipment inefficiencies. The application's user-friendly interface, real-time orientation sensor integration, and result-saving capabilities empower building owners and engineers to make informed decisions with minimal technical expertise. Preliminary evaluations show that the software provides results comparable to manual calculations while reducing the calculation time from hours to minutes. The software can be improved to include additional building types and regions, emphasizing its scalability and significance for sustainable building practices. This tool not only advances the efficiency of HVAC system design but also aligns with global efforts to optimize energy use and reduce environmental impact.