Smart buildings are the future and, say the least, the present as well. This multi-billion dollar market is growing swiftly and at a steady pace. They have so many benefits that everyone wants an intelligent building. However, why are they so special?
Smart buildings use the Internet of Things to create insights, analyze information, etc. This data and insights can be used to make the building operations run smoothly and efficiently.
Smart buildings use various technologies to carry out their processes. What are these technologies? Not many people know of the technologies used in smart buildings. In this article, we will tell you about the different technologies used in a smart building.
Internet of Things
The Internet of Things is perhaps the most prevalent form of smart building technology. It uses multiple devices’ IPs (internet protocol) to connect them to form a highly sophisticated system. This tech is used to organize, analyze, and exchange data effectively.
The Internet of Things is being used in smart homes and smart stores. Now, we have a permanent solution for deterrents like unclean bathrooms. Because the Internet of Things automatically detects and alerts the relevant authorities whenever a smart bathroom is running low on soap or paper towels.
Smart Sensors
Sensors are an essential part of a smart building. They are used to take action and collect data telling what the conditions of a room are, how much it is being used, how it is being used, etc.
Various sensors are used in smart buildings. Some of these are air quality sensors, temperature sensors, motion sensors, optical sensors, etc.
All these sensors play a vital role in the buildings. They all have a specific function that allows us to gather insights into the building.
Aerial Drones
Typically drones are used to capture aerial photographs and deliver packages. But that is not all they do. Aerial drones are becoming more and more common in offices and stores to perform a variety of tasks. These include detecting expired products on shelves, breaching unreachable places to detect errors and to catch intruders.
Aerial drones are unmanned and operated remotely. Nowadays, developers are trying to use AI tech to make them function autonomously. Such drones act as maneuverable eyes and perform more effectively than humans. Moreover, they are affordable, agile, and extremely efficient.
Virtual Reality
This technology surpasses computer-generated sensor input by whisking the viewer from the real world to a realistic but virtual world. This idea had been embraced wholeheartedly by designing and construction companies. It allows the client to view the space as if it’s completely ready. So they can get real-life experience and inspect the space.
Although this tech is still rare, it is becoming increasingly common and affordable now. Its far-reaching benefits include dynamic quality checks, 3-D internal design reviews, and virtual walkthroughs. As a result, many startups are now employing VR to improve their services.
Indoor Positioning System
There are two major benefits of an indoor positioning system. These include a better experience for people in the building and useful data on the building’s traffic, occupancy, and usage.
IPS is very much like the sensors – it collects data from all over the building through movement. It can be used by simply installing the hardware, or you are given the option of going hardware-free.
Smart Lighting
Smart lighting is one thing that can help you save energy and can reduce your operational costs. The sensors used in smart lighting are known as optical sensors.
They dim down the lights when they see there is natural light available. Moreover, if they sense a room is not occupied, they completely turn its lights off. This is very convenient for employees as they do not have to worry about turning the lights off every time they leave a room.
Moreover, it helps you save a good amount of energy. Hence, you can save money. Also, in times like these, when Covid-19 is on the rise, it is great that employees do not have to touch the switchboards. This minimizes the spread of germs.
Conclusion
Smart buildings are a great investment. Unfortunately, the technology used in them is expensive. However, with this technology, you can save a lot of money in the long run and can make your and your employees’ lives easier.
According to a recently published report by a renowned source, the smart building industry is set to reach a net worth of $33.7 billion by the end of 2023. Many factors are responsible for its exponential growth, but Green Revolution and Climate Change Activism are at the fore.
Many companies are being pressured to reduce their net energy consumption. A more ‘greener’ attitude is encouraged since it provides added benefits like greater productivity, better customer experience, and effective faculty management.