The modern world is defined by constant change, especially in the domains of construction and technology. Old-fashioned construction methods are out of date, replaced by methods that prioritise occupant well-being and sustainability.
To run smoothly and promote environmental responsibility, businesses must be familiar with all available options. One such option is the idea of “Smart Buildings,” which utilises cutting-edge technology for efficient and sustainable building design and construction. IoT deployment, in particular, is beneficial through the connection of building systems, which helps to reduce the energy and environmental impact of structures.
The integration of state-of-the-art technology into intelligent building systems can also aid architects, contractors, and building owners in developing environmentally-conscious communities. Given these advances, it’s vital for business owners to understand the key elements of a “smart building” and why they are crucial to the future of sustainable construction.
What exactly does “Smart Building Technology” entail?
The field of smart building technology involves various tools and methods that are utilised to track building occupants and equipment. It also establishes a digital framework that prevents system incompatibility resulting from technological changes.
Smart building technology relies on the Internet of Things (IoT) and its accompanying devices to regulate indoor climate and lighting, accumulate data, and deliver augmented reality experiences. These features are generally managed through a centralised control panel. These technological advances not only enhance occupant comfort but also foster environmental responsibility.
How exactly are smart buildings environmentally-friendly?
Energy expenditure and the impact of individual building components can be tracked through data analytics, which allows for the development of more eco-friendly intelligent buildings. IBM’s Envizi is one such technology that reduces carbon emissions by optimising energy usage in various parts of a building.
Appliances in smart buildings are designed to automatically turn off when not in use, which reduces energy consumption and carbon footprint. Moreover, it’s simple to track tenant appliance usage, enabling individuals to identify and reduce their high energy and gas bills while lowering their carbon footprint.
What Makes Smart Building Technology Essential?
Maximising Energy Efficiency
Building Management Systems (BMS) that access data have been developed to improve the optimal functioning of Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC), and other life safety systems like fire safety. Smart sensors and meters make these processes easily accessible.Streamlined Business Processes
The term “operations” pertains to building management, maintenance, and security. Automating and optimising building systems are fundamental approaches through which building and company owners can enhance operational efficiency.Tenant Comfort
Smart buildings enhance the comfort of their residents by adjusting the temperature and lighting to suit their routines, while also saving costs.
What Types of Smart Building Technology Are Available, and Who is Utilising Them?
Several technologies can help achieve sustainable and eco-friendly design objectives. Smart building technology is gaining traction among major organisations, and numerous prominent brands are taking the lead in this regard.
- Cisco
- Honeywell
- IBM
- Legrand
- Panasonic
- Siemens
Here are some of the most efficient sustainable construction technologies:
Internet of Things (IoT)
The integration of IoT devices into buildings allows maintenance staff to monitor essential aspects, such as air quality and utilisation rates of resources. This is critical for the health and safety of building occupiers, as well as the long-term sustainability of the building.
The ability of a facility manager to monitor real-time performance and make decisions based on accurate information can improve through the use of analytics-driven Artificial Intelligence. For instance, data found in test dashboards record the current use of an area, the ratio of oxygen to carbon dioxide in the air, infectious disease threats, and other information pertaining to the environment.Automation
Smart building technology can enable interoperability between the primary systems of a building. By linking smart solutions such as occupancy sensors and building management systems, data can be exchanged, and multiple processes can be automated.Digital Mapping and Replicas
The use of a digital twin, an accurate replication of a building, is increasingly popular in leveraging smart building technologies. This method provides building managers with exceptional control and precision by replicating the exact building in a digital format that can self-regulate in real-time using data from the physical twin.
For example, Resonai’s Vera builds live simulations in the cloud that are continuously updated in order to learn new things about their environments. This allows for the creation of extremely precise internal maps and navigation systems as the model adapts to the actual changing physical location.Fast and Secure Internet Access Anywhere in the World
Reliable and consistent network connectivity is crucial for the technologies that enable smart buildings, typically achieved through a combination of wired Ethernet and intelligent Wi-Fi coverage. Unfortunately, older concrete buildings can have “dead zones” with inadequate network connection, leading to a significant decrease in their value. While smart buildings employ various energy-saving technologies, providing all areas of the building with the necessary network connection is also a crucial aspect of the process.The Era of Augmented Reality
Smart building technology has the potential to transform internal mobility, staff training, and maintenance procedures with the aid of augmented reality. This technology can effectively enhance navigation and pinpoint any problematic areas.
Many building companies and owners choose to use a combination of digital maps and sensors alongside augmented reality to create a precise overlay of the interior and exterior like a handheld model. This combines numerous concepts into a cohesive bundle that fundamentally alters how individuals interact in a 3D space.
Does Sustainable Development Depend on Smart Building Technology?
To comprehend the implications of smart building technologies and sustainability in the green building industry, focus must be given to integration and scalability. While there has been significant progress, there is still much to be accomplished. The Internet of Things (IoT) continues to impress with cutting-edge technology that enhances the efficiency of smart building systems. With time, the range of applications for these systems is only expected to grow.
As the world’s attention shifts towards sustainable, long-term energy efficiency, it is logical to expect that smart, energy-efficient buildings will eventually become the standard, particularly in the commercial building industry.
