Iot devices to both automate and increase our public and private buildings safety
The Internet of Things (IoT) has massive potential to revolutionize the way we build and inhabit our homes. In fact, the creation of “smart” appliances like fridges, microwaves, or lighting systems is one of the most famous applications of IoT technology, and this type of tech is becoming mainstream in living rooms and kitchens across the world. With IoT enabled devices, home owners can connect every aspect of their home’s infrastructure to smartphones, wearables, or computers. At the moment, this allows them to schedule cooking, change the temperature in fridges, and start coffee machines remotely, saving time. But these basic applications are far from the limits of what IoT technology can achieve in smart buildings. We think there’s much more to be done and so let’s look at some current ideas to give our public a bit of inspiration.
Creating Comprehensive Building Management Systems
At the moment, house builders and property Companies are looking at ways to create building management systems (BMS) across their property portfolios. These systems involve using an array of sensors located around the property, which provide real time information about things like temperature, air flow, humidity, smoke levels, and even the level of toxins or particles in the building’s atmosphere. Just as importantly, they also provide feedback regarding energy consumption. By using the data gathered from BMS sensors, managers can then create automated processes to raise energy efficiency and optimize the experience of living (or working) in the building. You might not notice it as a shopper or office worker, but the buildings you enter could already be part of the IoT via this kind of setup.
Homes Safe and Convenient Making for Disabled Residents and Children
While BMS systems are generally large-scale and focused on the bottom line, there are also IoT applications that make buildings “smarter” for residents with particular needs. For example, if the house is inhabited by older residents, sensors can be installed which measure temperature levels and ensure that the ambient conditions remain within acceptable parameters. They can even measure the activity levels of residents, connecting the data with medical professionals who can then instantly see whether older people or disabled residents are experiencing difficulties. Similar systems can be used to ensure that babies don’t leave safe spaces, and be worn by pets to monitor their activities. It’s even possible to imagine creating wearable light sensors which combine with shutters or curtains to create optimal illumination levels.
From safety measures for older people to BMS systems for entire housing developments, the Internet of Things is changing the way people inhabit homes, public places, and work spaces.
What about SHM?
And all this can be integrated with the Next Industries systems – which are already “ready” for the IOT – thus creating a true smart home, where the level of security can also include the structural point of view. Oh yeah. Most people think of how beautiful automation and home automation are without going beyond, ie without considering the fact that they can be integrated with the security of the structure they live in.
Our sensors are compact, wireless, low power and rugged, capable of operating in both indoor and outdoor situations. They are unobtrusive and non- invasive, making them ideal also for domestic use and in the most sensitive environments.
Founded in 2014, Next Industries is a young Company dedicated to protecting not only our most ancient heritage assets but also places and buildings we everyday live in. Please review our solutions and applications pages for some case studies on our activities in this area.