ABSTRACT:

This project presents the design and analysis of a dynamic air conditioning load adjustment system for a bus based on passenger count. The proposed approach integrates detailed cooling load estimation with airflow and duct design to ensure adaptive thermal performance under varying occupancy conditions. A comprehensive heat load calculation is carried out by accounting for conduction through the bus envelope, solar radiation through glazing, internal sensible and latent heat gains from occupants, ventilation air, infiltration, door opening cycles, onboard electrical loads, and engine heat contribution. For a design occupancy of 25 passengers and peak outdoor conditions of 40 °C, the total cooling load is estimated to be 19.26 kW (5.48 TR), comprising 12.72 kW sensible and 6.54 kW latent loads. The total HVAC electrical demand is estimated at approximately 5.91 kW under steady-state conditions. The study demonstrates that a passenger-adaptive air-conditioning strategy, supported by accurate load modeling and optimized duct design, can significantly enhance energy efficiency while maintaining consistent thermal comfort within the bus cabin.