In the African Zulu language, the typical greeting is Sawubona. Unlike the English “Hello”, it is a more personal and respectful statement which means, “I see you”. And the traditional answer to “I see you” is Ngikhona, which means, “I am here.” It tells the other that you acknowledge you have been seen, and you understand that your personal dignity has been recognized. The underlying meaning is that “until you see me, I do not exist.”
In building automation, a similar conversation is happening all the time. And BACnet acts as the translator. The value of IoT devices is not fully realized until they are recognized by other IoT devices and even by centralized hubs.
An example would be when a university student enters her dorm room, a door contact detects the door opening and closing. Room lights turn on. The temperature begins its return to the setpoint. The value of the lights and HVAC system increase because the door contact is communicating with them.
Here is another example. Let’s say there’s a multi-dwelling unit with a building management system. This property features technologies that talk to one another. Mechanical systems, electrical systems, security, surveillance, the lighting of public spaces. Again, their value increases exponentially because they can talk to a central hub, and they can be controlled remotely using a single centralized platform.
And thanks to BACnet, Building managers can further increase the value of the BMS through integration with room controls, like lighting, C02 sensors, room climate, “door ajar” warnings, etc. The value of the building management system increases because room-level technology can be incorporated into the larger BMS control center.
The BMS system sends the message, “I see you”, and IoT devices respond, “I am here”.
This communication exchange breaks down traditional technological silos and in the process, increases efficiency and reduces costs. Compared to a non-controlled building, a building with a BMS system has lower energy consumption and reduced maintenance costs.
This automation puts people at the center; perhaps this is the most important advantage of all. It can keep building inhabitants healthy and more productive. It can avoid dry air, control air pressure, and maintain healthy ventilation levels. With increased fresh air, the relative number of particles in the air volume is redacted; contaminated air is removed more efficiently.
Are you ready to explore the possibilities? Call or email us. We can help you find the best options for your building automation. Email sales@telkonet.com or call us at 888-703-9398.