Canadian University

Project Overview

Objectives:

  • Decrease energy consumption
  • Minimize manual operations
  • Enhance room security and user comfort
  • Avoid the necessity to replace existing infrastructure

Integrations and Strategies:

  • Integration with Infosilem, Microsoft Graph API, Axiom, Siemens Desigo, Crestron, Lutron lighting, and Kaiterra to create a cohesive system.
  • Automation logic developed to control HVAC, lighting, and AV based on room booking data and occupancy, enhancing operational efficiency.

System Components

User Interfaces:

  • Backoffice for system administration.
  • Analytics Dashboards using InfluxDB for space management and air quality data.
  • External System Integrations:
  • PlaceOS Drivers and Modules for seamless communication with external systems.

Infrastructure:

Deployed on a Linux VM, running Dockerized microservices, managed by McMaster IT services.

  • Infosilem: Provides classroom schedules via a REST API.
  • Siemens Desigo: Manages the room's HVAC status and controls.
  • Crestron Fusion: Connects with AV controllers in classrooms.
  • Lutron Quantum: Manages lighting presets.
  • AxiomXA: Controls room access.
  • Kaiterra: Monitors room environmental sensors.
  • Cisco Spaces: Tracks WiFi device presence in the space.

Automation

System Automation Using PlaceOS Triggers

PlaceOS Triggers play a pivotal role in the POC, automating various operations like HVAC control, door unlocking, and AV settings based on the lecture theater's schedule, all without needing additional code.

Integrations

Results

  • Energy Reduction: Significant energy savings with a calculated reduction in electricity and natural gas usage based on baseline energy data derived from university reports.
  • Improved Security and User Experience: Automated control systems ensured that the environment adjusted to actual use, providing a secure and comfortable setting for occupants.
  • Financial Savings: Significant cost savings estimated from reduced energy consumption.
3 Hour Reduction in daily HVAC operation

Energy and Emissions Impact:

Calculated Baseline: Potential to save approximately

‍22,800 MWh/year in energy and around ‍‍4,947 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually.
‍$838,100 in cost savings for the campus.

Recommendations for Expansion:

  • Broaden Automation: Expand the use of automation to include actual operational control beyond just notifications, enhancing the accuracy of predicted savings.
  • Data Analysis: Utilize energy data to refine and validate savings and emissions predictions, supporting targeted improvements.