Smart building technology: More efficiency, comfort and security

Crafts 4.0: With digital building technology, businesses can increase cost efficiency and comfort in offices and workshops. But what are the advantages and disadvantages of smart solutions? And what should you consider when purchasing?

This article is part of the special feature on digital craftsmanship.

German companies are increasingly relying on smart building technology : 42 percent already use intelligent lighting in offices and warehouses , while almost a third regulate the temperature via smart radiator thermostats . More than a fifth also rely on intelligent shading through automated roller shutters or awnings . This is the result of a representative survey conducted by the digital association Bitkom in May 2023, which focused on companies with more than 20 employees .

Easily retrofit smart technology

There are basically two ways to make your business premises "smart": wired or wireless . Wired solutions are more suitable for new buildings , as replacing electrical installations in existing properties often necessitates a complete renovation. Network-enabled wireless systems, on the other hand, can be retrofitted without any drilling or additional cables . These usually work with a smart control center that is connected to an internet router, and all components can then be operated via apps on a smartphone, tablet, or PC . However, wireless systems can be more susceptible to interference, especially in densely populated cities, due to the multitude of networks. For more complex installations, a specialist company should therefore be consulted to ensure reliable operation.

Save energy automatically

Craft businesses can benefit from smart solutions in many areas . A key benefit of digital building technology is the optimization of energy consumption : By networking systems such as heating, ventilation, and lighting, operating costs can be reduced in the long term . For example, smart radiator thermostats can automatically detect whether a window is opened nearby and then automatically reduce the heat for a predefined period. Apps also allow users to program scenarios with just a few clicks, in which smart thermostats stop the heat supply to the heating system as soon as a contact sensor registers a window being opened . Intelligent lighting also contributes to greater comfort and efficiency, adjusting light colors from warm to cool white to the time of day and switching off via motion or presence detectors as soon as everyone leaves the room.

Radio-networked security center 

But digital building technology can also play a crucial role in workplace security: In addition to wireless alarm systems with sensors and actuators for hazards such as burglary , smoke , heat , carbon monoxide , water , or even robberies , tilt and vibration sensors also provide effective monitoring. These can be used, for example, to check whether valuable tools , warehouse doors , or the company safe are being moved without authorization . By connecting to other smart devices, lights can be switched on and an alarm triggered in such cases – simultaneously with a notification on a smartphone , which thus becomes a wirelessly networked security hub. Images from surveillance cameras or smart doorbells can also be accessed on the display anytime, anywhere.

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More benefits with "Matter"

If building technology is to be comprehensively digitized, it is advisable to develop a customized concept beforehand . Existing smart devices should be included in the planning to ensure that they can later be integrated with new acquisitions – for example, using "if-then" rules via apps such as home-connect.com , zapier.com , alexa.com , or ifttt.com . Alternatively, devices from a single manufacturer can be purchased, as they work seamlessly together and are easily programmable via the manufacturer's app.

Photo: © DHB

When purchasing new smart devices, businesses should also ensure that they support the "Matter" connectivity standard . This allows devices from different manufacturers to be easily combined and controlled using any Matter-compatible app. Furthermore, the standard automatically encrypts all data connections and includes additional security features.

Checklist: Introduction of digital building technology

• Define Objectivesthat you want to achieve with digital building technology.
• Make a inventory the existing technical equipment and analyze the need for new solutions.
• Create one Cost plan Consider all necessary investments. Check funding and financing options.
• Do research Search for suitable digital solutions. Compare offers based on quality, cost, and service. Select suitable technologies that are compatible with existing and new devices.
• Install Security Measures: to protect against cyberattacks, such as virus scanners, firewalls and VPNs, and encrypt the communication between all devices.
• Place a Schedule for implementation. Proceed gradually to avoid disrupting operations.
• Plan small Workshopsto familiarize employees with the new digital technology. Ensure that all users understand the benefits and how to use the technology.
• Testing Initially, test the new systems on a limited scale. Regularly gather feedback from employees to continuously improve technology and processes.
• When introducing digital building technology, please consider all legal Requirements and laws, as the GDPR.

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