Smart buildings are technologically integrated buildings that have all their infrastructural features connected. Technology is making rapid developments and is a part of almost everything today. Buildings are no exception. Smart buildings operate using sensors and actuators, amongst other forms of technology connected to one central hub that collects statistical data and controls all operations within the buildings.
Smart buildings make efficient use of energy resources and prove beneficial to both the occupiers and the building owners as they substantially reduce maintenance costs by carrying out repairs before the problem worsens.
How do smart buildings work?
Smart buildings make use of a hub, the central computer system connected to all the data collectors and the building systems. Data is collected from the smart sensors and sent into the primary computer system, providing an appropriate command to the system that needs to be managed.
For example, a motion detector will detect motion in the area and send this information to the computer. The computer will then send a command to the lights in the room to turn on. All this happens rapidly, in the blink of an eye.
Future developments
These systems are also designed to gather statistical data that can be used to further make these buildings more efficient. Expected developments are that these devices will be able to monitor an individual’s heart rate, body temperature, and other data and create an appropriate environment for their body.
Such developments will aid in increasing productivity levels and happiness of the occupants of the building. It will also make the buildings healthier for people. Today, air quality sensors detect impurities like dust, smoke, and pollen and signal air purifiers to start their job and provide fresh, clean air for the occupants to breathe in.
Making life easier
Smart buildings make life much easier as their functions are primarily passive. It is set to adjust itself to suit the preferences of the occupants without much manual interference. However, security is one of the main aspects occupants are often concerned about.
Smart buildings have access systems that make use of fingerprints or eye scans to provide people access to the facilities. This prevents unauthorized access and results in a much more efficient security system.
While this technology is still considered to be in its infancy, it has brought a lot of ease to people’s lives and will continue to do so with its growth.
