By Isabelle Robinson, M.Sc.Jul 10 2019
Shutterstock/ViblyPhoto
Global building automation software has become increasingly popular in the engineering industry. Clients are becoming interested in more complex automation systems such as lighting and security in addition to the already popular HVAC system.
According to research, more than 25% of all building automation projects use these additional systems. This can be seen, especially, in large structural projects such as retail malls, stadiums and colleges.
These systems (BACS) use a single centralized platform to communicate information and allows the automation of light, security, temperature and air quality to enhance the environment of the inhabitants of the building. Structures with these systems are known as smart buildings and experiments have shown that occupants of these types of buildings have increased comfort, productivity, safety and efficiency.
Much of the focus of global building software technology is energy efficiency and carbon consumption. Companies, such as Iconics, boast that implementing this type of software will save approximately 20% energy than the same building without the technology. This is better for the environment as it reduces a company’s carbon footprint, a known contributor to global warming.
Another excellent advantage for the software is its compatibility with BIM (the Building Information Modelling) which most of the engineering and construction companies are using to organize and monitor their building assets. This means that despite the increased initial expenditure, maintenance of the system may cost less in the long run.
The main components of a building automated system use sensors to monitor temperature, humidity, lighting level and even location of people. This information is then transmitted to the centralized controller. This acts as the brain of the system and can use the information taken by the sensors to send commands to the technology that controls the temperature, lighting and heating etc., to create the perfect pre-preprogrammed environment.
Building automation software markets are increasing rapidly with the USA remaining in the lead. This is followed by Germany, Japan and China, all of which accounted for approximately 50% of the total BACS market in 2017. This is expected to increase to a total of $8.5 billion by 2022. This is most likely due to increased demand and technological advancements in the field. On the other hand, challenges to the industry continue to be the high cost of installation and lack of trained experts, all of which hinder market growth.
Another challenge that could face the industry is obsolescence. The rapid increase of new technology means that systems may be out of date in less than two years after installation. These are all factors which need to be considered when installing this type of technology.
In addition to this, there is concern that building automation systems may be vulnerable to hackers or cybercriminals. Due to the fact that doors and security cameras are tied to the system, the building may be vulnerable to attack. This has caused several companies to come up with innovative ways to keep buildings safe using the automation system by improving security features.
Bibliography
- BSRIA. (2018, May 1). Global Building Automation being driven by the three "I"s: information, integration & IP connectivity. Retrieved from bsria.co.uk: https://www.bsria.co.uk/news/article/global-building-automation-being-driven-by-the-three-is-information-integration-ip-connectivity/
- Business Wire. (2017, June 26). Global Building Automation Software Market 2017-2021 with Automated Logic, Honeywell International, Johnson Controls, Schneider Electric & Siemens Dominating. - Research and Markets. Retrieved from businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170626005481/en/Global-Building-Automation-Software-Market-2017-2021-Automated
- Iconics. (2018). Smart Building Software will SAVE a minimum of 10-20% in Energy +/or Carbon Consumption. Retrieved from iconics-uk.com: https://iconics.com/
Disclaimer: The views expressed here are those of the author expressed in their private capacity and do not necessarily represent the views of AZoM.com Limited T/A AZoNetwork the owner and operator of this website. This disclaimer forms part of the Terms and conditions of use of this website.