Building automation is a system of controls designed to control the operation of building functions. Although automation can impact many aspects of a building’s daily operations, it is most often used to control HVAC or electrical. Building automation is managed by a BAS (Building Automation System).
Combining automation with artificial intelligence is a growing trend that will lead to a smarter, more efficient construction industry. Although BAS technology is well-established, it’s now being used in new construction phases. Many green buildings use a BAS to reduce energy consumption and increase operational convenience for occupants.
By controlling operations, integrated building automation reduces energy waste and helps to lower energy consumption. A BAS is a great asset for developers looking to reduce the carbon footprint of their projects.
Before we get into the eco-friendly benefits of building automation, let’s first dive into the basics. Scroll down to our infographic for a visual overview of these environmental benefits. This information will help you decide on building automation systems for your next project. Make sure to have solutions ready for any questions in the construction industry.
Building Automation Systems: The Basics
They manage all aspects of building automation systems. This covers HVAC and electrical systems and security, plumbing, and mechanical systems. It is costly and difficult to manage these systems by humans. Building automation eliminates the guesswork and maximizes efficiency.
A building automation system has four layers. Each Layer is responsible for a different part of the automation process. This includes user input and follow-through. These layers are the foundation of any BAS. They can be simple or complex. These layers are:
- Input/output Layer: Various sensors collect data throughout a building
- Field control layer. evaluates input data
- Supervisory Layer: “central routing” collects information at the field control layer
- Application Layer: organizes supervisory layers data and presents it to users
These layers allow for easily transferring all BAS operating statistics into one interface. This allows the system to be monitored simultaneously. This allows for faster operations and can quickly detect and report any problems at the early stages. BAS systems are a great choice when green buildings have many interconnected systems.
How building automation can achieve environmental benefits?
Automated building operations reduce facility management costs as the systems control building features such as lighting and HVAC. Automating buildings also reduces energy consumption. This can make them green-certified. Automation can help buildings save up to 30% in energy costs.
BAS can be used to reduce energy consumption and could result in many environmental benefits that will keep building happier occupants. Automation can lead to lower energy consumption and reduced waste, which in turn can result in cost savings. Automation greatly reduces the building’s stress on the electric grid.
Lower Daily Consumption
A BAS does not measure energy consumption but can be set to operate within certain usage guidelines. BAS with machine-learning adapts to schedule HVAC systems so that they operate at lower levels when there is direct sunlight.
Reduce Unwanted Waste
Standard building automation controls lighting, HVAC and other systems. The BAS will signal to turn off systems that are not required during the off-hours when a building is vacant or a wing has been empty. Artificial intelligence allows a BAS to predict when a building is likely to be vacant and plan system operations accordingly.
Utility costs can be reduced
It can be very expensive to manage a building. In fact, operating costs could amount to three quarters of the total expenses for the building’s life. A BAS allows systems to be shut down in order to preserve efficiency and reduce total runtime. This will increase usability over the long-term.