future prospects for building automation
A building automation system (BAS) is a smart technology that uses the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence, and data analytics to automate and optimize a building’s management and operations. This includes the management of heating, cooling, lighting, security, and more. It is the basis of modern intelligent buildings and is increasingly being used in offices, retail, education, and medical facilities.
A BAS can control multiple devices and systems from a single dashboard, making it easier to manage them all from a central location. This has the potential to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve occupant comfort. However, the cost and complexity of these systems have a tendency to deter some smaller buildings from installing them.
This is because the initial cost of a BAS can be expensive, and it requires a large footprint to see a return on investment in a reasonable timeframe. However, as prices continue to drop and the demand for smart Building Automation technology continues to grow, it is becoming increasingly possible for small and mid-size buildings to benefit from a BAS.
What are the future prospects for building automation?
Enhanced energy efficiency: Buildings are a massive source of wasted energy. According to the Department of Energy, office buildings waste about 30% of all energy they consume. A BAS can help to minimize this waste by regulating temperatures, turning off lights in unoccupied rooms, and maximizing the use of natural light.
Improved occupant comfort: A comfortable working environment is vital to employee satisfaction, productivity, and health. A BAS can regulate air temperature and lighting to ensure that occupants feel comfortable whether they are working early in the morning or late into the night.
Reduction in maintenance costs: A BAS can streamline routine maintenance by reducing the need for manual control. For example, a BAS can monitor the status of critical equipment and detect when it is reaching the end of its service life. This can then trigger an alert to notify staff members, who can then schedule repairs accordingly.
Reduced operating and maintenance expenses: A BAS can minimize downtime and improve operational efficiency by detecting equipment failures and sending notifications to staff. It can also reduce the number of manual errors by allowing staff to remotely troubleshoot and resolve issues using the BAS dashboard.
The future prospects for building automation are bright. As the demand for these systems continues to rise, manufacturers are working hard to improve their functionality and capabilities. For instance, the integration of 5G and edge computing is expected to accelerate the speed of information processing and enable faster data access. Additionally, many experts believe that BAS will begin to incorporate safety and security features.
This is a major step forward, as it will allow the system to react to events in real-time and take immediate action. For example, it could warn occupants about potential COVID-19 risks and activate alarms or guide evacuation routes. Similarly, it could also send an alert to security services in the event of a fire or other emergency.
