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The world of buildings is undergoing a profound transformation. No longer are they just static structures meant for shelter; they are becoming intelligent, dynamic entities that optimise energy consumption, enhance occupant comfort, and improve overall operational efficiency. This transformation is made possible through the convergence of two key technologies - Internet of Things (IoT) and interoperability. In this article, we will explore how IoT and interoperability are revolutionising building performance and paving the way for a smarter and more sustainable future.
Challenge: interoperability in smart buildings
Interoperability is a persistent challenge for PropTechs (Property Technology companies) when deploying their Smart Building services. It involves the seamless connection, communication, and exchange of data between different equipment and brands. The complexity increases when devices from various manufacturers and protocols need to be coordinated with technical standards such as Modbus, KNX, or BACnet. This lack of interoperability hinders the deployment of Smart Building applications, leading to wasted time, effort, and resources.
Building connectivity for PropTechs
Buildings account for approximately 40% of global energy consumption, making them a crucial focus for eergy efficiency and sustainability efforts. PropTechs play a vital role in improving building performance by offering innovative solutions for energy efficiency, predictive maintenance, and overall Smart Building management. However, the deployment of these solutions is often hindered by incompatible technologies, proprietary protocols, and complex Building Management Systems (BMS) networks.
To overcome these challenges, PropTechs require reliable and cost-effective solutions that enable easy integration with existing building equipment and systems. This is where IoT connectivity solutions come into play.
Leverage IoT for building connectivity
IoT connectivity solutions act as an abstraction layer between the building's complex IT structure and the services provided by PropTechs. These solutions enable seamless communication between different types of equipment, centralise data collection and analysis, optimise building operations, and reduce environmental impact.
In the past, some PropTechs had to build their own complete building management stack due to the lack of trustworthy and affordable third-party platforms. However, this approach often proved challenging as it required expertise in multiple layers, including equipment connectivity, semantics, and analytics. By leveraging IoT connectivity solutions that focus on equipment connectivity, PropTechs can alleviate the burden of building a comprehensive stack and instead focus on their core offerings.
Unlock smart building potential with IoT solutions
IoT solutions are the key to unlocking the potential of Smart Buildings. They provide intuitive platforms, plug-and-play installations, user-friendly consoles, and lower operational costs. These solutions offer interoperability, enabling seamless integration with various building equipment and systems, regardless of the underlying field communication protocols.
One such IoT solution is Wattsense, which enables communication with all types of building equipment by unifying field communication protocols. This allows PropTechs to easily access the Building Management System (BMS) or create a BMS-like network in buildings with no BMS access. By using remotely managed interoperable IoT devices as gateways, PropTechs can collect data, visualise graphs, set up alarms, control equipment through the Cloud, and deploy Smart Building Integrations that modernise the building.
Deploy smart building apps without BMS access
One major obstacle to deploying a Smart Building app in a building with no BMS or no access to the BMS is the lack of interoperability between the building equipment and the application. However, IoT technology has bridged this gap by enabling connectivity between devices.
With the help of remotely managed IoT devices acting as gateways, PropTechs can establish a BMS-like network, collect data, analyze it, and control equipment through the Cloud. This eliminates the need for direct BMS access and allows PropTechs to deploy their Smart Building apps even in buildings without pre-existing BMS infrastructure.
Benefits of IoT solutions for building performance
IoT solutions offer a multitude of benefits for building performance and management. By centralising data and enabling real-time monitoring, these solutions empower property owners, operators, and technicians to make data-driven decisions for optimising energy consumption, improving maintenance schedules, and enhancing occupant comfort.
Additionally, IoT solutions facilitate the integration of energy monitoring solutions, enabling seamless data sharing between on-site systems, cloud platforms, and hyper-vision systems. This seamless flow of data allows for cost-effective modernisation of properties, saving weeks of deployment time and reducing operating costs.
Embracing a smart and sustainable future
The future of buildings lies in their ability to adapt, optimise, and perform at their best. IoT and interoperability are the driving forces behind this transformation, enabling buildings to become smarter, more efficient, and sustainable.
PropTechs can leverage IoT connectivity solutions to overcome interoperability challenges, streamline operations, and unlock the full potential of Smart Buildings. By adopting these solutions, they can offer cost-effective, user-friendly, and innovative services that revolutionise the way buildings are managed, leading us towards a more sustainable and connected Novacene.
Conclusion
Building performance is being revolutionised by the convergence of IoT and interoperability. PropTechs are at the forefront of this transformation, offering innovative solutions for energy efficiency, predictive maintenance, and Smart Building management. By leveraging IoT connectivity solutions, PropTechs can overcome the challenges of interoperability, access building data, and deploy their applications without the need for direct BMS access.
The future of buildings is smart, sustainable, and interconnected. IoT solutions provide the necessary tools to optimise energy consumption, enhance occupant comfort, and improve overall operational efficiency. It's time to embrace the potential of IoT and interoperability and unlock the full potential of Smart Buildings for a more sustainable and connected world.
