Feature: Sensor Technology
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The future of building automation: AI and sensing technology creating smarter buildings
By Andy Camsell, echnical Consultant at Sontay 14 October 2024
www.electronicsworld.co.uk
very sector has bore witness to the rapid evolution of technology, and the building automation industry is no exception. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and advanced sensing
technologies are paving the way for a smarter, more efficient, and sustainable future. As businesses
and property owners prioritise energy efficiency, cost savings and occupant comfort, innovations in building energy management systems (BEMS) are more crucial than ever. Sontay, a market leader in providing sensing and peripheral devices
that are vital in any building controls application, highlights how the integration of AI with state-of-the-art sensors is key to achieving goals and reshaping the future of building automation.
AI in Building Automation BEMS have long been at the core of modern smart buildings, centralising the control of various building functions such as HVAC, lighting and energy usage. Traditionally, these systems rely on sensors, controllers, actuators and user interfaces to optimise energy efficiency and maintain comfort. However, AI has brought a significant shiſt, moving beyond static, rule-based systems to create dynamic environments capable of learning and adapting in real time. AI enhances BEMS by offering advanced data analytics, detecting
patterns in energy usage, predicting maintenance needs and optimising system performance in ways that human operators might overlook. For example, AI can analyse historical data to predict when an HVAC system may require maintenance, preventing downtime and reducing repair costs. It can also adjust systems based on real-time occupancy or weather conditions, minimising energy waste while ensuring comfort. As AI continues to evolve, it is becoming more accessible, even in
smaller commercial buildings. While challenges such as integration with existing systems and data security remain, the adoption of AI- driven BEMS is steadily increasing. Sontay is at the forefront of this movement, developing sensor technology designed to work seamlessly with AI, ensuring that buildings can operate smarter and more efficiently.
Advancements in Sensing Technology Sensing technology is the backbone of any effective BEMS. Sensors gather critical real-time data, which BEMS use to make informed decisions about energy management. Tese sensors monitor environmental parameters such as temperature, occupancy, light levels, air quality and humidity, enabling systems to adjust HVAC, lighting and ventilation to optimise energy use while maintaining occupant comfort. Recent advancements in sensing technology have made sensors
more accurate, reliable and affordable. Innovations such as miniaturisation, wireless connectivity and improved sensitivity have revolutionised how sensors are deployed in buildings. Sontay’s sensors, for instance, are designed to integrate seamlessly with BEMS, capturing data with greater precision and allowing for more nuanced control of building environments. Te integration of sensors with the Internet of Tings (IoT) and AI
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