Some facilities waste up to 30% of their energy usage on inefficient processes. It’s one of the reasons intelligent buildings are becoming more common. Engineers are designing buildings to use their physical spaces more sustainably.

Here’s a look at what intelligent building management systems are, what they can do, and how your facility can implement the practices.

What is an Intelligent Building?

An intelligent building uses advanced automated systems to optimize operational efficiency and improve occupants’ comfort. Thanks to advances in technology, green and intelligent buildings are the same.

Intelligent buildings use integrated IoT-connected devices, along with cloud computing, augmented reality, and other systems on the platform to automatically run daily processes. For example, an intelligent building can adjust the lighting automatically when a space is occupied. When the room is empty, it turns the lighting off for energy efficiency.

The technology allows the building to create processes that fit the structure’s unique needs.

What are the Components of Intelligent Building Technology

Intelligent building technology is primarily comprised of four components.

Reliable Internet Connectivity

Standard Wi-Fi routers are not enough to power the connectivity necessary for intelligent buildings. Materials in the buildings can block signals, coverage is limited, and there isn’t a plan for emergencies.

Ethernet cables are the most reliable way to power the IoT. It brings the systems together but does require extensive wiring.

Optimized Maintenance

Intelligent building systems have tools that monitor the systems. They can alert managers when inspections are necessary before a problem occurs. Easy access to the hardware and software should be included in the design.

Energy Efficiency

Intelligent buildings use automated systems to manage energy usage. For example, climate controls can lower heating and cooling costs. Controls can also be installed on lighting fixtures. The system automatically turns the lights on when a space is occupied and off when everyone has left the room.

All of this adds up to produce noticeable energy savings.

Personal and Automated Services

Intelligent buildings are similar to smart facilities in a few ways. Both use IoT devices and online connectivity to improve energy efficiency. The primary difference is the automation intelligent buildings use, like advanced networks with sensors to optimize the building’s environment according to occupancy.

Personalization, however, is where the two types of buildings overlap. Both provide a host of tools to enhance comfort, efficiency, and productivity. Smart systems allow for user control, while intelligent buildings are automatic. Both systems are flexible and can be tailored to meet the building’s unique needs.

What are Intelligent Building Solutions?

Almost all buildings use IoT devices. The difference is intelligent buildings connect and automate the devices. These systems can easily become complex, especially in larger facilities. Intelligent building solutions can help keep everything organized.

Intelligent Building Management Systems

Building management systems (BMS) centralize system control throughout the facility. The platforms place all functions into a single dashboard for easy access. Whether it is lighting, security, HVAC, building security, or other functions, managers have control from a centralized location.

Intelligent building management systems (IBMS) take everything a step further by connecting the operations to the IoT. An IBMS system is common when managers need additional support to increase energy and operational efficiency.

To take full advantage of intelligent building capabilities, the IBMS requires the following features.

• Advanced modeling capabilities to shift through the data collected from the sensors. One example is predicting when preventive maintenance is required.
• Granular controls that allow managers to look up individual devices in a specific room to make changes or adjustments.

IBMS with Action Services Group

Are you ready to learn more about intelligent building management systems? Contact us for your lighting needs and find out how you can reduce your energy usage with intelligent building systems and controls.

To speak with one of our lighting control specialists, call 610-558-9773, emailing [email protected], or schedule a call that fits your needs by clicking the button below.