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 topic Digital Crafts

German companies are increasingly relying on smart building technology: This is how 42 percent have intelligent lighting in offices and warehouses, while almost one third regulates the temperature via smart radiator thermostatsMore than a fifth also rely on a intelligent shading through the power of automated shutters or awningsThis is the result of a representative survey conducted by the digital association Bitkom from May 2023, at the Companies with more than 20 employees were in focus.

Easily retrofit smart technology

There are basically two ways to make your own business premises "smart": by cable or wirelessly. Wired solutions are more suitable for new buildings because in existing properties the Replacing electrical installations often requires a complete renovation Without any drilling or additional cables, however, network-capable radio systems These usually work with a intelligent control center, which is networked with an Internet router, and All components can then be operated via apps on a smartphone, tablet or PCHowever, 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 be consulted to ensure reliable operation.

Save energy automatically

Crafts businesses can benefit from smart solutions in many areasA key benefit of digital building technology is Optimization of energy consumption: By networking systems such as heating, ventilation and lighting, reduce operating costs in the long termFor example, smart radiator thermostats automatically detect whether a window is opened nearby and then automatically reduce the heat for a predefined period. Apps also allow you to program scenarios with just a few clicks, where Smart thermostats stop the heat supply from the heatersas soon as a Contact sensor registers the opening of a window. Intelligent lighting also provides greater comfort and efficiency, Light colors from warm to cold white adapt to the time of day and contact us via Motion or presence detector switches offas soon as everyone leaves the room.

Radio-networked security center 

But digital building technology can also play an important role in operational safety: In addition to radio-networked alarm systems with sensors and actuators for hazards such as Burglary, Smoke, Heat, Carbon monoxide, Water oder sogar Robberies Tilt and vibration sensors are also an effective control. These can be used, for example, to check whether valuable tools, Hall doors or the Company safe is moved without authorization. By connecting with other smart devices, the Turn on the light and trigger the alarm – simultaneously with the Message on the smartphone, which thus becomes a wirelessly networked security center. 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 the building technology is to be comprehensively digitalised, it is advisable to first to develop an individual concept. This should already existing smart devices are plannedto ensure that these can be linked to the new acquisitions later – for example with "if-then" rules via apps such as home-connect.com, zapier.com, alexa.com or ifttt.com. However, it is also possible to purchase devices from a single manufacturer that work together optimally and are easily programmable using the manufacturer's own app.

Photo: © DHB

When purchasing new smart devices, companies should also ensure that they meet the Connection standard "Matter" This allows Easily combine and control devices from different manufacturers – with any matter-enabled app. The standard also automatically ensures Encryption of all data connections and brings 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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