Wireless Sensors in Building Automation

Abstract

Cost-efficiencies Necessary to Drive Adoption of Wireless Sensors in Building Automation

In addition to technical sophistication, greater cost-efficiencies while maintaining high levels of functionality and reliability are high on the priority list for most wireless sensor developers. While wireless systems reduce the wiring and labor cost in building automation technologies, there is an urgent need to enhance power efficiency and the range of the wireless digital signal transmission. Wireless mesh networking technology is likely to address the issue surrounding wireless signal attenuation and offer better quality wireless signals. As installation and maintenance expenses continue to rise in building automation, developers of wireless sensors will have to lay emphasis on affordability in addition to individual comfort, design, flexibility, and security.

This Technical Insights research evaluates the latest advances and upcoming wireless sensor networking technologies in building automation. In addition to discussing the various technology drivers and restraints, the study covers research and development efforts at various universities, leading companies, and other research institutions across the globe.

Flexibility Popularizes Wireless Sensors in Various Building Automation Applications

Apart from the possible cost benefits, ease of deployment, retrofitting applications, and scalability of the network are spurring interest in wireless sensors. "Whether used in new construction or retrofit, flexibility is the ultimate benefit in deploying a wireless system as opposed to a wired network," says the analyst of this research. "These sensors can be located -- or relocated -- to optimize system performance, increase customer comfort, and adapt to changing floor plans."

Constantly evolving embedded systems and wireless technology are also supporting the development of novel wireless sensors. Instead of installing different sensors for various functionalities, the applications can be bundled in a single chip, thereby bringing down costs by several notches.

Standardization to Expand the Reach of Wireless Sensors Technology

The emergence of the IEEE 802.15.4 standard for radio communication hardware and very recently, the ZigBee standard for networking is driving demand for wireless sensors and sensor networking technologies. Due to better interfacing capabilities with other original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), a customer looking to shift to another service provider need not incur additional expenses in reworking the entire solution.

This move toward a standards-based environment is also spurring adoption rates for wireless sensors in both large and small building automation applications. Monitoring of structural health in particular is improving due to the incorporation of miniature sensors with improved functionalities. "Advancements in nanotechnology are enabling production of tiny sensors which can be placed at various joints, reinforcements, and other places during construction of a structure," explains the analyst. "These sensors constantly monitor the structural health and provide accurate data regarding cracks, excessive loads, or any other critical situation."