Tridonic net4more toolbox: Successful practical testing at company headquarters
DORNBIRN, Austria, March 14, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Tridonic today announced it is utilizing a smart building project to demonstrate successful practical application of its net4more toolbox for IP-based networking. net4more provides a network for the 200 connected devices – both wired via Power over Ethernet (PoE) and wireless via THREAD – Tridonic has installed at its Dornbirn headquarters. These devices include occupancy sensors, air quality sensors and illuminance sensors.
In this pilot installation for net4more, Tridonic is using the existing lighting infrastructure in its headquarters as the carrier technology. The individual sensors are linked to the luminaires and form a network that is connected to the Internet and into which further devices (sensors, light points and other electronic devices) can be seamlessly integrated. The data collected is stored in the cloud and made available for analysis purposes via a documented and open interface.
The toolbox uses both wired and wireless transmission paths for communication between the luminaires, sensors and IP infrastructure, and integrates a wide range of components, e.g., LED drivers, communication modules, sensors and communication infrastructure (routers, switches), on a uniform platform. net4more then makes the captured data and the control options for the connected devices available via an open interface. Power is supplied via conventional power cables or via PoE. Of particular benefit is that the solution is fully scalable and can be implemented in virtually any type of building, including large office complexes.
Clear visualization
A heat mapping application visualizes the sensor data captured regarding occupancy, air quality and illuminance, utilizing graphics to provide a clear picture of particular parameters. These include room occupancy by percentage, proportion of carbon dioxide and fine dust particles in the air, and luminaire energy consumption. All the values are transferred hourly to cloud applications, where the data can be stored and evaluated to provide a basis for process optimizations. Tridonic can use the occupancy data, for example, to create detailed usage profiles for different rooms, such as offices, conference rooms and staff kitchens. Specific measures can then be taken, such as adjusting room temperatures or drawing up alternative room occupancy plans. All the data in the heat mapping app can be viewed on a central monitor.
Better air quality
Air quality data is continuously recorded and is available for reporting purposes. The data also serves as a yardstick for optimum control of air conditioning systems to achieve standardized air-quality values. Facility managers can utilize the information on peak loads provided by the power-consumption data to put preventive measures in place. The heat mapping app shows precisely where in the rooms the luminaires are installed and with which sensors they are connected.
As a central platform, net4more delivers the database for further, in-depth analyses. Partner companies can use the platform to develop appropriate applications for other purposes and more detailed evaluations. The captured data therefore provides a basis for extracting solid information that can then lead to optimized humidity levels or room usage, and other concrete benefits.
Practical benefits
"The pilot installation at our headquarters is providing impressive proof of the practical benefits of net4more," explained Thomas Moder, Segment Manager Controls & Connectivity at Tridonic. "We are benefiting in many ways from IP-based integration of three different sensor types in our lighting infrastructure. We are monitoring the air quality in the entire building, and the next step will be to use that information to create better conditions for our colleagues. We are also using the data from the occupancy sensors to optimize processes relating to the use of meeting rooms and offices. And last but not least, we are optimizing the energy efficiency of our lighting systems and experiencing cost savings as a result."
Apps offer easy use in practical applications
4remote – Wireless operation of Tridonic lighting systems and IoT applications: With this central app, users can quickly and easily adapt the lighting and all subsystems integrated into the net4more system to their personal requirements. A smartphone or tablet performs the function of a remote control or traditional wall switch. It can be used to switch luminaires on or off or dim them, and preferred lighting scenarios can also be selected.
4commissioning – Assistance with planning and commissioning: 4commissioning can be used to plan lighting systems from the comfort of a desk and then easily commission them on site wirelessly. To this end, the authorised expert locates the individual luminaires and other subsystems via an app, assigns them accordingly and creates the required lighting scenarios and moods.
About Tridonic
Tridonic is a world-leading supplier of lighting technology, supporting its customers with intelligent hardware and software and offering the highest level of quality, reliability and energy savings. As a global driver of innovation in the field of lighting-based network technology, Tridonic develops scalable, future-oriented solutions that enable new business models for lighting manufacturers, building managers, systems integrators, planners and many other types of customers.
To promote the vision of the "Internet of Light", Tridonic relies on partnerships with other specialists. The goal is the joint development of innovative technological solutions that convert lighting systems into intelligent networks and thereby enable associated services. Its profound, technical industry expertise makes Tridonic an ideal partner for established brands and for newcomers to the market.
Tridonic is the technology company of the Zumtobel Group and is headquartered in Dornbirn, Austria. In the 2016/17 tax year, Tridonic generated sales of €377.2 million. 1,590 highly skilled employees and a worldwide sales presence in over 50 countries reflect the company's commitment to the development and deployment of new, smart and connected lighting systems.
SOURCE Tridonic
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