July 2014
Column
AutomatedBuildings.com
Babel Buster Network Gateways: Big Features. Small Price.
Control Solutions, Inc. - Minnesota
(Click
Message to Learn More)
Occupancy Control
Using integration, it is
possible to use the sensors that are part of a lighting control system
as an input for the BAS to better operate the HVAC system.
Paul Ehrlich,
Ira
Goldschmidt
& Angela Lewis
Building
Intelligence Group
Of these options,
motion sensors are the best for control of lighting control systems,
while CO2 sensors are generally used for ventilation level
control. Using integration, it is possible to use the sensors
that are part of a lighting control system as an input for the BAS to
better operate the HVAC system. In many lighting control systems,
there are motion sensors installed in each major zone, and these are
fairly easily integrated so that the same inputs that are used to turn
on or off lights can also be used to reduce zone ventilation when an
area is unoccupied and make sure it is fully ventilated when
occupied. This is a great solution especially for areas such as
private offices, conference rooms and classrooms that may have variable
occupancy.
At Lightfair last week, we saw a number of new “next
generation”
lighting control solutions. These are systems that incorporate a
sensor (generally for daylight and occupancy) into each fixture.
Most of the systems connect wirelessly with wall switches to provide a
complete, granular lighting control system. Each system is different
but several come integrated with new LED fixtures, many are
self-configuring and some even include temperature sensing at the wall
and fixture. We expect to see these systems continue to improve,
perhaps to the point where they can be used not just for occupancy
sensing but also for people counting. This development makes
integration between lighting and BAS even more valuable with the
lighting control system becoming the main way to determine occupancy.
"Fixture Integrated Occupancy Sensor" - Courtesy of CREE.
About the Authors
Paul and Ira first
worked together on a series of ASHRAE projects
including the BACnet committee and Guideline 13 – Specifying DDC
Controls. The formation of Building Intelligence Group provided them
the ability to work together professionally providing assistance to
owners with the planning, design and development of Intelligent
Building Systems. Building Intelligence Group provides services for
clients worldwide including leading Universities, Corporations, and
Developers. More information can be found at www.buildingintelligencegroup.com
We also invite you to contact
us directly at Paul@buildingintelligencegroup.com
or ira@buildingintelligencegroup.com
[Home Page] [The Automator] [About] [ Subscribe ] [Contact Us]