Project Proposal B4 - Hailey Ihlow

Topic: Sensors and Controls for energy savings and security

Members: Hailey Ihlow, Blas Rodriguez, Akiviadis Tsitsios

1.     Introduction

One of the main components around buildings is the use of security. Through the years we have been improving all the components of buildings, and now simple locks are not as useful as before. Many threads have been overcome with mechanical techniques, but the use of automation can not only improve the user’s interface with the systems but greatly improve the overall performance of the system.

On the other hand, one of the most energy consuming elements that humans use every day are buildings. In which the accumulation of all the different things inside increase this consumption. Even though we have come up with technologies to decrease the energy needs (like an LED), automation can play a huge role in building’s energy savings by activating the correct systems at the correct locations and times based on the needs.

As a result, the use of automation and sensors can bring advances to the performance of a building and the interaction of its tenants. The goal of this research project is to inform ourselves of some current techniques and technologies and apply them to a model system. Thus, providing us not only the basic knowledge of the systems that the market offers us to improve a building but also to understand how to properly use it and apply this knowledge in a model situation.  

2.      Background

For this project, most of our research has been done around current control systems for security, lighting, and sensors. For this project, we determine that it will be necessary to use LUTRON RadioRA 2 Lighting Control device, NCD Industrial Relay Controller 8-Channel SPDT, StartTech ICUSB2324X Serial Adapter Hub for controls and sensors. On the other hand, the communication with the computer will be made completely in RS232 following each device protocol.  Finally, the central control will be done in a computer using MATLAB as our programming software and Microsoft Excel as our database.

3.     Components (Sensors and Elements)

a.     Security components used for demonstration

                                                       i.      Using an NCD Industrial Relay Controller 8 channels SPDT, we will be controlling a board of 8 5-10 amps SPDT relays which will be used to communicate with the locks and also collect data from sensors. The sensors that will be used are yet to be determined based on our approach.

b.     Lighting controls used for demonstration

                                                       i.      For lighting controls, a LUTRON RadiaRA 2 will be the integrated control that communicates with the PC. This system is excellent because it allows monitoring and controls any lighting subsystem.

c.      Software and communication technique

                                                       i.      As most of our college applications have been done using MATLAB, the software used for this project will be MATLAB that contains a really useful toolbox for RS232 communications. Using MATLAB as the programming software, the best approach for a demonstration will be the use of Microsoft Excel as the Database. However, as this element is just a demonstration and proof of concept, the system can be then expandable to other database software such as Microsoft Access.

4.     Floorplan

A working model system will be created using a program such as Revit, creating a small scale structure that will be designed with sensors and elements for energy saving and security.  The model will have the basics of a building such as walls, floor, ceiling, and roof. Different models will be linked together, i.e. there will be a sensors model and an architectural model. Further expansion of the models will come as required.

5.     Database

For a big building, the best system to contain the entire database of the tenants will be Microsoft Access. It provides not only a much better environment for big data sets, but it contains a better toolset which manages this data through different software. However, as our model system is really small (In comparison to the actual capabilities of the system), our focus will be to use Microsoft Excel for proof of concept.

6.     Conclusion

a.     Findings

                                                       i.      Small write up on what was completed and what possible outcomes using the sensors/elements. This will include any research completed for further understanding.

                                                     ii.      Log and Lessons learned

b.     Model and Database

                                                       i.      Revit sheets with different sections via the Architecture and the sensors/elements models

                                                     ii.      Database and info on sensors, elements, and other components used within the project.  

Personal Expansion:

On further expansion there I will be mostly in charge of the Revit model. As I have stated in the past in other blog posts, I work with Revit at my job placing fire protection and plumbing components. This project will expand my Revit use as we incorporate other components within the senor world. Revit, as we have discussed in class, has abilities that help projects as such show the intricates of these components in a model so that the client and others can see how the components work side by side.  

Comments:

1.      Alec Silverstone

a.      This seems like you have a good structure for your project. If you were at the lecture last Thursday, he spoke about similar things in the workforce with having robotics in the construction field. It was very interesting and possibly looking into what his company could be a good source.

2.      Christian Tait

a.      This is really interesting as well. As I told Alec the lecture from last Thursday spoke about this topic as well. I think thinking about the different applications may be interesting. For example how this is achieved today and in the field, and expand on what problems could arise from this. At my job, we use a 360 camera for pipe networks, but we can't always tell what is happening, so going out into the field is helpful but costly if the site is far away. But an overall good project to expand upon.

3.      Weiyi Tang

a.      This seems to have a lot of parts to it and will be a good expansion on the class. I like that you have narrowed down your search a built past the initial thoughts. This is for sure something knowing more about will help with future career goals since you will have a better understanding of this realm of tech. I hope this project goes well, and I am looking forward to your presentation.