The next generation of intelligent building controls will communicate with any services device, whatever the type or manufacturer; will connect via the internet to buildings anywhere in the world; track energy use to the minute; and allow occupants to control their immediate environment through their own desktop pc and the latest wireless technology.
This isn't as futuristic as it sounds. Networked and internet-based building management systems are with us now.

Network-based building management systems are also likely to grow in popularity with clients. They offer flexibility and control. Property developers and managers with international portfolios can have centralised control of what's going on in the buildings they run.

The very latest building management systems also piggyback on existing IT networks, making their installation easier, quicker and cheaper.

It won't be long before this kind of set up is the standard rather than an added bonus. Why lay extra cables when they're already there?

Services engineers could also reap benefits from the future of bems. Using this kind of system, engineers could offer clients more detailed information and advice on energy use. Intelligent buildings should also ensure the problem of post-commission 'fiddling' with services settings is far less likely – leading to a better internal environment and happier clients.

But with the next generation of bems must come the next generation of building services engineers. It's difficult to imagine now, but in future, services engineers may need to understand IT networks and related technologies as well as they understand the science of hvac.

If services engineers are to retain control of how building services function, they will have to hold their own against a growing number of IT consultants and middlemen who are already moving into this lucrative market.

On the bright side, the higher consulting fees inevitably paid for anything IT-related could come the way of engineers willing to branch out into this field.

This isn't entirely unlikely either. Enterprising consultants have launched energy management consultancy services, or offer emissions calculations in response to new building regulations and emissions trading opportunities.

It may not be too long before they are offering more IT-related advice too – specifying networks and protocols along with ahus and boilers.

Don't know you're IP/TCP from your Bluetooth? Better start learning – it will probably be worth your while.

Source

Building Sustainable Design

Postscript

Karen Fletcher, Editor