Building Automation
Building Automation
BATHINDA
Even though building managers have almost no direct input in the system, except when
they need to make certain adjustments or optimizations, they usually don’t have time to
be trained on how to use the system.
They want to start working on the system from day one, to be able to find the relevant
information right away so they can take the needed actions as soon as possible. With that
being said, a well-designed building system should be easily accessible, and remote.
In simple terms the building automation system is just like the human brain, it tells the
building equipment what to do, just like your brain tells your hands and legs to move.
The core functionalities of BAS are keeping the heating, cooling, and ventilation within
a certain range, humidity control, lighting based on an occupancy schedule, proper
functioning of the elevators, fire prevention, security and other critical systems in the
building.
WHICH SYSTEMS CAN BE PART OF THE BAS?
Some of the systems that can be incorporated in the BAS are as follows:
– HVAC systems
– Plumbing systems
Building automation systems usually have 5 components. We will describe how these
components interact and communicate with each other.
1. Sensors
Sensors are devices that keep track of the humidity, temperature, lighting levels, how
many people are in the room, if there is smoke in the rooms, and other parameters. After
gathering this information, sensors transmit them to the controllers.
2. Controllers
Controllers are the brain of the building’s automation system. They collect all of the
information from the sensors and according to that information, send commands to all
connected systems, like HVAC systems, lighting systems, and more.
3. Output devices
When the controller sends out a command, relays and actuators of the specific systems
follow the new instructions or requirements. For example, turn on the heating or air
conditioning at 6 am so when people come to work at 8 am, it’s properly heated or air-
conditioned.
4. Communication protocols
Every building automation system uses specific language to connect each individual
component. Protocols such as BACnet and Modus help each component to send and
receive information in order to adjust its settings and execute commands.
5. Terminal interface
Every BAS has a user interface or terminal from which building and facility operators can
access it. This terminal helps users to understand the information transferred between each
component and gives the opportunity for making adjustments manually.
The displays are visual with photo-realistic graphics. These graphics usually show each
floor plan with each piece of equipment.
ADVANTAGES OF BMS
A BMS can predict the amount of lighting and cooling for a building based on data
accumulated by the occupancy monitoring system. When the requirement for these
facilities is low, the BMS or BAS will automatically cut down output. Based on the
daylight conditions outside, the BMS can adjust windows and blinds to make use of
natural light to illuminate the building. This can help cut down electricity expenses by
about 10 to 30 percent.
By reducing the amount of time each device is used, and by reporting system failures
immediately, the BMS can help cut down maintenance and replacement expenditure as
well.
2. Sustainable solutions
As BMS software can be accessed from anywhere with at-a-glance dashboards and
graphical representations of buildings of the user interface, failures can be detected and
resolved around the clock. Predictive analytics help prepare informational warnings that
alert the engineer about possible failures before they even happen.
4. Enhanced productivity
The BMS will heat and cool the air more efficiently and effectively, leading to
pleasant working conditions and better productivity from the workforce. With a
timely, self-adjusting HVAC system based on occupancy and temperature-based data,
the indoor environment of a commercial building can provide comfort to the average
employee, leading to fewer sick days.
5. Increased accuracy and consistency.
Installing a dedicated data solution system for a task as trivial as controlling the lighting
can foot a hefty bill. It takes highly skilled labour, i.e., a building engineer with
knowledge in Big Data and cloud-based analytics as well as high-end software to
collect data and use it right.
2. Requires extensive research
There is quite a bit of research that goes into determining the right BMS vendor for the
requirements of your organisation. You do not want to pay for devices or peripherals that
you will end up not using. You will require professional assistance, for deciding the
features you need and also for the installation of hardware and software, which is costly to
come by.
3. Security concerns
The initial investment required to set up an automation system can be costly. However, in
the long run, this investment will save you time and money. Additionally, many businesses
are now offering financing options for automation systems, making it easier than ever to get
your business on board with automation.
5. Employee resistance to change.
One of the main challenges businesses face when implementing an automation system is
employee resistance to change. Employees may feel that their job is being threatened by
the introduction of an automated system or they may not understand how the new
system works. It is important to communicate the benefits of the new system to all
employees and ensure that they have adequate training on how to use it. This will help to
ensure a smooth transition to automation.
6. The need for regular maintenance.
Like all machines, automated systems require regular maintenance to keep them running
smoothly. This can be time-consuming and may require the services of a professional
technician. However, with proper maintenance, your automated system will run efficiently
for many years.
THANK YOU