Smart buildings usually establish a wireless connection that restores and thereby shares information about the functioning of that building, such as usage of water, perpetual leakages, overheating, or any other utility issue. Usage of network integration in the creation of smart buildings enables remote control and even promotes automated processes.
With the amalgamation of in-building Information Technologies (IT) and Operational Technologies (OT) in recent times, the concept of network integration has come into being. Despite single-system technologies being cost-effective, observations show that they pose a great threat to the security systems of smart buildings. It is because the implementation of a single system made the primary connection weak, and such a weakness paves the way for the hackers to appropriate it to their use.
Hence, the latest trend to apply network integration will not only strengthen the security system and deter breaches of data but also be cost-efficient, which is therefore implemented in smart buildings located in countries such as the US, UAE, and Australia. With consideration of the complexities of technology and professional efficacy, such technologies can be implemented by way of logical network amalgamation.
The deployment of network integration in smart buildings would depend upon various factors such as the size of the building, sensitivity of data, cost of deployment, and performance requisites, among many others. These are generally responsible to secure a stable connection in the networking of the operational infrastructure including systems such as control settings, elevators, escalators, lighting, and emergency systems. This gives great insight to managers with regards to the underutilized or overutilized resources, such as least accessed spaces in the building, average temperature, when lights are turned on, which doors are locked or unlocked, and so on and so forth.
Network integration supports factors such as sensors, energy efficiency technologies, safety measures, smart security systems, and intelligent lighting. With the advent of such vital technological infrastructures, usage of network integration in smart buildings has been proven to reduce carbon footprint as it aids in saving natural resources and can help save hefty amounts of money.
With the cost of commodities going up every year, this technology helps in tracking energy utilized and promotes adhering to increased efficiency and a more sustainable lifestyle. Apart from the environmental impact, it creates the best security system because as compared to conventional buildings, the staff is not required to keep a tab on whether the doors are locked. Access to customized key cards thus ensures that sensitive data is protected from unsolicited use.
While the Burj Khalifa was named the “Smartest Building” in the UAE in 2019, the Crystal is considered the one in London to have personalized solar power and a ground heat pump system. The Apple Park in Cupertino, California, with world-class design, is considered the most energy-efficient building in the world. Smart buildings are therefore about to be established as the future of construction and architecture.
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