Saturday, March 12, 2022

AI in building automation and HVAC

 AI in Building Automation & HVAC

The today world technology keeps moving on an exponential growth rate and not in linear, whereas artificial intelligence started footprinting on all industry it possible before we proceed further how artificial intelligence used in building automation?

let us go through some basics of artificial intelligence terms.

What is Artificial Intelligence(AI)?

·       AI branch of computer science dealing with the simulation of intelligent behaviour in computers.

·       AI or artificial intelligence helps machines to learn from experiences (otherwise called as machine learning) and adjust to new inputs and work as a human.

·       Almost all technology giant  companies like Google, Microsoft, Amazon started involving AI concepts in their services for examples,

Google translate uses AI, where translating techniques keeps an updating/learned/suggested to google machines to give better accuracy.

Google Assitant uses AI, where it used to assist the user needs based on natural voice by processing various AI algorithm to detect the user’s voice and predict the better result.

Amazon and other e-commerce website are providing recommended products based on the user experience -behind this concept, it is not implemented with the only pre-defined program but also used various AI algorithms to predict the user recommended products with high accuracy which help them bring million of revenues for e-commerce owner.

What is Machine Learning?

·       Machine learning is technically a branch of Artificial intelligence which is limited to or more specific than the overall concept of artificial intelligence. Machine learning is an idea for machines to collect a set of data to process and learn with an advanced algorithm to predict the better output.

·       otherwise, we can say machine learning is capable of changing the program themselves.

What is Deep Learning?

·       Deep learning is a subset of machine learning.

·       Deep learning is related to deep artificial neural networks which are set of an algorithm that has a new set of record in accuracy for many complex problems.

Above terms and definition are just basic about artificial intelligence and proceed with a further post to understand how artificial intelligence service of software used in building automation.

let us discuss Roby and Brainbox AI about how it is used in building automation and saving more energy on buildings.

How Artificial intelligence used in Building automation system

With the help of artificial intelligence, Machine learning, deep learning and cloud technology concept, AI service provider creating best and various algorithm by HVAC and building automation experts and same implemented with the existing system installed in buildings.

Note that building already has a centralised and specific system with dedicated hardware and software to monitor and control the equipment as per the requirement.

Existing BMS system generates and stores tons of data of connected equipment in the building

·       TrendLog- log/store the various sensors data connected in buildings with configured over a period of time.

·       Events-Log the information about on and off state of all equipment.

·       Alarms- generate an alarm if any fault identified in connected equipment.

AI role is here to collect the data from the BMS System, process it and instructs your existing HVAC system on how to operate more intelligently and efficiently.

Let us see some AI tools used in Building automation 

·        Roby

·        Brainbox AI

What is Roby?

Roby is a chat/voice-enabled software with AI concept that handles all requests, automate repetitive tasks, eliminates miscommunication, and reduces resolution time to increase employee satisfaction.

·       Simplify ticketing management-Roby unifies all channels for making requests to a single interface for employees.

·       Keep employees engaged-Roby keeps employees updated on their requests and encourages interactions.

·       Understand the office inside and out-Roby periodically initiates employee surveys and indicate potential problems based on responses.

·       Deflect repetitive question-Roby learns from employees’ feedback and automatically deflect repetitive questions.

How Roby Helps Your Office Management

·       Managing Varied Requests-There is many ways to make a request, and it is difficult to keep eyes on multiple channels.

·       Answering Repetitive Questions-In a dynamic environment, it is difficult to maintain a knowledge base for so many questions.

·       Keeping Employees Involved-Sometimes, the conversation gap between employees and support team can cause miscommunication.

·        Getting Feedback from Employees-Companies usually use professional service to do employee surveys, but this wastes time and money.

How does Roby work?

Employees simply send all requests to Roby

·       Using “/Roby” or click a button, employees can easily send a request to support teams and check statuses anytime.

·       Roby automatically creates a to-do list for the support team and keeps employees notified

The support team can stay focused on their tasks and not worry about being continually distracted. Simply type “request”, Roby will show a to-do list and keep everyone updated.

·        Roby can learn the Q&A and automatically answer repetitive questions

·        Employees can ask a question to support teams through Roby. Roby will memorize the Q&A and directly answer it next time when the same question is asked

·       Roby drives the interactions between employees and the support team

Every two weeks, Roby will send simple metrics to employees to keep track of the effort from the support team and get their valuable feedback.

·       Get valuable insights into your office space

·       The feedback and survey results are displayed in the Roby Portal. The support team will be able to access and better understand how to improve employee satisfaction.

Roby is not limited only with above features but also add-on with existing building automation

·       HVAC Add-on: Control the temperature of workspaces at any time, and have preferences automatically applied in the future.

·       Lighting Add-on: Adjust the lighting in any workspace and create schedules to maximize energy use efficiency.

·       Support Ticketing Add-on: Submit support tickets- anytime, anywhere, and get immediate responses with automatic notifications, 24/7.

·       Calendar Add-on: Book meeting rooms on the fly, see which rooms are available, and ensure that unused room is automatically opened for assignment.

Key Benefits of using Roby for building automation

·       Convenient, Easy to Use. Integrates into existing employee communication platforms, allowing employees to easily submit requests. Natural language processing makes submitting a request simple.

·       Communications.  Roby keeps the requestor informed with status updates and resolution notification.  Operators can make broadcast announcements

·       Time Savings. Automated execution of HVAC tasks, elimination of duplicate tickets, and intelligent communication free up Operators to focus on higher value activities. done!

·       Speed. Temperature change requests completed in real-time without human intervention, even after hours.

·       Cost Savings. AI continuously optimizes HVAC operations, resulting in reduced heating and cooling costs without sacrificing employee comfort.

·       Predictive. Roby continuously learns users’ needs and takes proactive actions to optimize the office environment and replenish office supplies.

·       Satisfaction and Productivity. Comfortable employees are happier and get more done!

What is BrainBox AI?

Brainbox AI using technology to the implementation of optimizing in energy consumption of building which is one of the largest contributors of climate-changing in this world.

·       Brainbox AI engine supports a self-operating building that requires no human intervention.

·       Using deep learning, cloud-based computing, and our proprietary process, our solution autonomously optimizes existing Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) control systems for maximum impact on energy consumption.

Brainbox AI helps to

·       25-35% of reduction in total energy costs.

·       60% improvement in occupant comfort.

·       20-40% decrease in carbon footprint.

·       3-month payback and low CAPEX

How BrainBox Implemented and works to save energy in Buildings

STEP 1: GETTING ACQUAINTED

·       Our solution identifies and catalogues your building’s specific operating behaviour and energy flow by gathering data from both internal and external sources. It then creates a building energy profile for making informed predictions about future energy flow.

·       BrainBox AI collects hundreds of thousands of real-time data points, such as outside temperature, sun/cloud positioning, fan speed, duct pressure, heater status, humidity levels, occupant density and many more.

 STEP 2: OPTIMIZING FLOW

·       Using over 25 customized algorithms working in real time, our AI engine instructs your existing HVAC system on how to operate more intelligently and efficiently.

·       This process is similar to an aircraft on auto-pilot.

 STEP 3: CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT

it continually amalgamates and analyzes all generated data to further optimize operational efficiency and discover other unique insights.

To improve operational efficiency, BrainBox AI works to answer questions, including:

·       Which HVAC units have the fewest mechanical issues?

·       How are changes in occupancy levels affecting energy consumption?

·       Which HVAC units are the most energy efficient in cold or humid climates?

Bottom Line – This AI technology services and tools for buildings will have much impact on facility management in the near future.

Learn more about artificial technology on

·        UNDERSTANDING ENERGY EFFICIENCY AS A DYNAMIC RESOURCE IN THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT

Note: Original content published on https://www.brainboxai.ai/ and https://tellroby.com/


Tuesday, March 1, 2022

Comparison Metrics for Intrusion Panels

 Comparison Metrics for Intrusion Panels

In this note, we reviews fundamental features and attributes for evaluating and comparing intrusion alarm panels.  These criteria are:

·        Number of Hardwired Zones

·        Number of Wireless Zones

·        Number of Keypads Supported

·        Multiple User Codes Supported

·        IP Programming and Control

·        Advanced Features

·        System Expandability

·        Video/Access/Fire Integration

·        Dealer Only

·        Installation & Commissioning

Inside we define and describe each of these criteria.

Comparison Chart

The ability to condense the 10 points into a standard format is critical for comparing systems to each other. Conceptually, these factors form a graphic like this example:

For quick 'executive summary' level comparison, a chart is useful. However, our standard report method includes detailed descriptions of each of those 10 points. In the sections below, we describe in detail each category.

Number of Hardwired Zones

How many areas a panel can monitor is a core feature. Keeping track of number of sensors is too simplistic and not always helpful.  Many sensors can often be connected in series, for example in a bank of windows several sensors may be wired together in a chain and connected to the panel in one circuit. If one contact opens, the entire zone the circuit is connected to alarms with no specific indication of which sensor is reporting trouble.  

However, granularity can be achieved when zones are associated with one or a small number of sensors in an building's area. In this way, comparing number of zones is a useful metric.

Number of Wireless Zones

Not all panels or systems support wireless sensors.  Moreover, some panels may only support wireless with optional equipment or in one specific zone. As with hardwired, comparing wireless zones is the standard attribute.

Number and Type of Keypads Supported

For many systems, the type and ability to have multiple input keypads is a major consideration.  While most alarm systems support one installed keypad, the location where it is installed may be inconvenient for quick access by users in all protected areas. Also, the utility of a basic alpha-numeric pad cannot be compared to a full graphic touchscreen that may display or even sound more descriptive messages or be integrated with other systems like video surveillance.

Multiple User Codes Supported

Akin (সদৃশ) to key control or access control, 'user codes' should be assigned to and may be provisioned differently for individual users. Basic alarm systems may support 20 user codes and be more than enough for a typical residential install, but that number may be too limited or small for small commercial use.

Likewise, each code may carry different privileges, from a 'master' configured to do anything, to a 'temporary' that may expire after one use that is only valid for a specific range of hours.

IP Programming and Control

Not all panels have a web or network interface for notification, control, or programming from a networked device.  While this may not be a major dealbreaker for a simple user, the expectation of easy programming, use, and integration often depend on this feature.

Noting the options and type of IP connectivity is key for modern systems, but many systems lack it or require additional parts to make it happen. This category also indicates the usefulness and/or cost app-based or remote access controls.

Advanced Features

Comparing additional non-essential, but still valuable, attributes of individual systems is key. For example, 'line supervision', or the ability to detect weather sensors on a circuit are tampered with, is not often a major consideration in residential or even small commercial systems, but is often critical in high-security applications. Likewise, noting how many events can be logged into panel memory may make a big difference in some designs but not all.

System Expandability

The maximum number of zones a system supports often require additional hardware or modules to achieve that what is available by default on a stock panel. Additionally, the supported number is often different than the individual number of hardwired zones plus wireless zones available from expansion hardware.

In other cases, hardware zone expanders may physically support connecting hundred of zones, while the underlying panel only supports a fraction of that number. Noting 'expandability' clears up potential confusion.

Video/Access/Fire Integration

In terms of tying other systems into the intrusion system, the variation and ability of supported systems is substantial. Some systems support basic access control or video surveillance camera integration by default, while others require additional hardware or software for proprietary devices. Others may not support any integration at all.  Understanding the options are important comparison factors.

Dealer Only

Understanding the availability, support, and pricing structure behind a platform is another key information point.  Many alarm products are not available via distribution, and understanding this point often is a factor is weighing buying and support options.

Installation & Commissioning

Check installation team shouldn’t hide any password, must now share installed sensor details with others. Select professional and they must invite you to put password and user-id creation. They must trained you in easy way and handover all document related product and there company details for telephonic support. 

If you still aren't sure how you manage your building / establishment/ Shop Burgler alarm system or Intrusion Alarm System, feel free to get in touch with one of our experts via ssaintegrate@gmail.com. Before selecting vendor / installer check and verify they are authorized or not to execute your Burglar or Intrusion Alarm system work. It’s suggested Burglar alarm or Intrusion Detection & Alarm System commissioned by certified professional.