The number of IoT enabled devices grew by 8 percent in 2021 and is projected to increase by another 22 percent up to 2025 according to market research platform IoT Analytics. This equates to around 27 billion devices. IoT spans industries, from manufacturing and automotive to healthcare, retail and of course Building Management Systems.
What is IOT?
The Internet of Things (IoT) is the digitally connected universe of smart devices. These devices are embedded with internet connectivity, sensors and other hardware that allows communication and remote control and monitoring via the web.
How does it work?
- Devices have hardware, like sensors, that collect and transmit and receive data.
- The data collected by the sensors is then shared via the cloud and integrated with software.
- The software then analyses and transmits the data to users via an app or website and enables control of the devices.
Smart devices connect to an IoT platform.
What is an IoT platform?
Basically, it is the support software that connects everything in an IoT system.
Why IoT Is Important
The Internet of Things makes everyday devices “smarter” by enabling them to send data over the internet, communicating with people and other IoT enabled devices and controlling systems such as BMS.
ACS supplies one of the best BMS available, Niagara by Tridium. Tridium Niagara® is a building management system that utilises an HTML framework to connect embedded devices or systems across many manufacturers and communication protocols.
5 Ways that the IoT is reshaping smart building automation
No-Fuss BMS Upgrades
Sensors for the IoT are relatively cheap, self-contained and easy to install and maintain. Add the fact that with robust, scalable and low-power IoT connectivity, they can be placed throughout the building to capture comprehensive data on operations and simplify and automate decision making and equipment control.
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Utility Savings for Cost and Environmental Footprint Reduction
Energy efficiency is becoming more and more important in relation to facilities management. HVAC equipment was often operated in a uniform manner with associated waste such as overheating or underheating across the property. A BMS offers real-time data enabling pin-point control and higher energy efficiency.
With additional capabilities such as collecting occupancy data, facilities managers can monitor trends and optimise lighting and heating/cooling schedules. Individual zone or unit billing is also possible.
360-View Facility Management
IoT enabled devices for smart building automation have the capability of going way beyond air conditioning and lighting. Wireless sensors offer never before possibilities for fire protection, security, utilities monitoring and many others.
For example, leak detection offers early warning of pipe failure preventing water damage and expensive repairs. Vibration detection and temperature monitoring can show possible equipment maintenance requirements.
In old buildings, sensor information on vibrations, humidity, cracking and suchlike help to effectively monitor building health. The potential value of IoT for building management is huge.
Tenants/Occupants’ Well Being and Satisfaction Improvement
Satisfied tenants yield good relationships. The increase in smart buildings has given rise to more demanding tenants. A BMS with well operated lighting, climate control and the other associated operations increases tenant satisfaction. For example, from accurate assessment of traffic building usage, cleaning schedules can be implemented ensuring good sanitation.
Opportunities for New Revenue Generation
Massive IoT data is introducing property owners to new data-driven revenue streams that may not have been considered. Tenants can be offered a host of insights for them to use. Information about foot-count, area utilisation and peak usage can help them with their operational planning.
The days of a BMS only switching on and off lights and heating are over. The modern BMS can fully integrate all aspects of a facilities management.
Have a chat with ACS to find out what a Building Management System can do for you.
