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5 Components of Today's Leading Building Automation ...

May. 06, 2024

5 Components of Today's Leading Building Automation ...

There are many benefits to implementing a building automation system. Some of these include lower operating costs, lower maintenance costs, improved energy efficiency, and more comfort for occupants. Implementing these systems has become more popular as the demand for energy-efficient facilities with increased security detail grows.

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With all the advantages today’s building automation systems can offer, it’s easy to understand why a building owner or manager should choose to implement one. However, there are some key factors to take into consideration when undergoing a building automation system installation.

Define BAS

A building automation system, or BAS, controls the operation of essential building functions. Thus, a BAS consists of both hardware and software. Different BAS components can include security alarms, elevators, lighting, heating, ventilation, elevators, and more.

Though it’s easier and more cost-effective to put a BAS into place during the building construction process, it can also be done afterwards by integrating new systems and controls into the existing architecture.

A well-designed BAS should work quickly and remotely, as not many building owners and managers are always on site. In a world where many are expected to work with fewer resources, installing a BAS can make managing a building and its various functions run more smoothly.

In addition to improving efficiency, a BAS can help building owners and managers identify potential issues prior to them happening, saving on repair costs and preventing downtime, essentially adding an extra layer of safety and peace of mind.

What Should the BAS Do?

The BAS automatically controls many functions of a building, but it also provides monitoring services that can alert owners and managers of critical issues as they come up.

For example, a BAS can send an alert if the temperatures within the building are too high or low, signaling an issue with the heating and cooling systems. This allows for quick action to resolve the issue.

A BAS can also provide alerts related to security so that owners and managers instantly know if there is an intruder in the building. In addition, it can send alerts about air quality or about other problems with the building’s mechanical workings.

BAS Layers

Most BAS setups are made up of four different layers, each functioning together. These layers include:

The server/application layer, which gathers the output from different supervisory devices
The supervisory layer, which compiles the traffic from the field controller layer
The field controller layer, which analyzes the data from the inputs and output
The input/output layer, where the sensors and control devices are located

Building Automation System Components

Within each BAS layer, there are a number of components. Following is a list of the five main components that make up some of the leading BAS setups, including explanations of how the BAS components work together to increase the overall efficiency of a building:

1. Sensors

The sensors within a BAS are the heart of the system. They monitor and track all of the individual components of the BAS, which include the temperature, lighting, security, and more. If any sensor detects an issue, it will send an alert to the system controls.

2. System Controls

This part of the system is responsible for managing all of the data that is submitted by the sensors. Based on this information, the system controls can send instructions to the different system components. For example, it can alert the heating or cooling system to increase or reduce temperature if the sensor detects an issue.

3. Devices to Control Output

The output devices are the ones that actually carry out the commands sent out by the system controls. Some of these functions may include reducing or increasing heat in different parts of the building depending on the time of day, turning off or dimming lights in parts that aren’t currently in use, or turning on security alarms and monitoring on a daily schedule.

4. Communication Languages

A BAS uses its own communication language to send commands within the system. All the components within the system understand and interact with this language. The two main languages that are most often used within a BAS are BACnet and Modbus.

5. User Interface

The user interface is what the building owner or manager can access to see the current status of all of the building’s systems. It also allows the owner or manager to manually make adjustments to the current system settings, if necessary.

Choosing a user interface for the BAS is an important decision, because it’s the way that a building owner or manager will primarily interact while with the BAS. If the interface isn’t designed well, it can cause issues and make the overall system difficult to work with. Look for a user-friendly interface that is intuitive. The interface should have a modernized look and be able to offer analytics and comparison tools. It should be easily accessible and not involve complicated apps that need to be frequently updated.

The interface should also allow for manual adjustments as needed to ensure the comfort of building occupants, no matter the situation.

The Bottom Line: BAS for the Client and the Building

As a systems integrator, you know what a BAS is, what it does, and what components it requires. But, by taking the time to view the BAS through the eyes of the client, you can ensure you deliver the right solution for their needs. You’ll also ensure to save precious time and headache by using D-Tools' end-to-end core business software to streamline your project workflow along the way. Schedule a guided tour to learn more.

What Are the Key Components of Automation Electronics ...

Explore key components of industrial automation systems, such as sensors, network communication, controllers, and actuators, along with emerging technologies like soft PLCs and digital twins, highlighting their role in enhancing efficiency and driving innovation in various industries.

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Automation is the application of machines, control systems, and information technologies to optimize productivity in manufacturing processes, minimizing the need for extensive human involvement.

In industrial contexts,1 automation plays a pivotal role in refining plant operations by implementing various control systems, including Programmable Logic Circuit (PLC), Human-machine Interface (HMIs), and robotics.

By incorporating logic and programming, automation provides precise instructions to machines regarding specific functions, significantly enhancing manufacturing performance. Modern industrial automation systems rely on crucial electronic components capable of mirroring human functionalities.

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Further reading:
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This article discusses these key components of automation electronics systems, such as sensors, network communication, controllers, and actuators, as well as some emerging technologies in the field of industrial automation systems.

Sensors: Essential Components in Industrial Automation

Automation electronic systems, like our senses, utilize equipment such as cameras, pressure gauges, temperature sensors, photoelectric detectors, microphones, accelerometers, and flow meters to gather the information required for job completion or achievement of objectives.

These sensors2 are essential in industrial operations because they turn physical measurements into electrical signals and correctly measure key characteristics such as position, speed, acceleration, humidity, heat flow, pressure, temperature, and so on.

The data collected by these sensors is crucial for monitoring and regulating manufacturing processes, preserving quality, reducing accidents, and providing real-time information to human management.

According to a report published in the journal Sensors International,3 sensors for automation systems have advanced greatly in terms of sophistication, compactness, and dependability in harsh conditions. Further shrinking, electrical noise minimization and sensor cost reduction are all ongoing development areas in automation sensors.3

The Nervous System of Automation Systems: Network Communication

Like how our nervous system relays electrical signals from our senses to the brain, Automation systems utilize a computerized control network to coordinate electronic signals from sensors to the controller and transmit signals from the controller to actuators and other output devices.4

The advancement of networking infrastructure and protocols, such as EtherNet/IP, Modbus, Profibus, CAN bus, MQTT, Zigbee, and TCP/IP, has not only enhanced the speed and accuracy of signals but has also increased the capacity for communication among numerous sensors and output devices.

Doing so facilitates seamless interoperability among controlled machines within the Industrial Automation Ecosystem of a manufacturing facility.4 It is important to note that network communication is not merely a collection of wires; modern networks encompass wired and wireless components.

Controller: The Central Hub in the Industrial Automation System

Much like our brains, which serve as the most intricate electrical signal processor we know of, an automation system's controller integrates sensors' inputs to make informed decisions about issuing signals to actuators and other components of the controllable machine.

The controllers in automation systems have progressed from basic mechanical relays to swift computers with ample digital storage capacity, enabling the execution of intricate algorithms such as machine learning and other forms of artificial intelligence. Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) are the most common controllers in industrial use today.

With over 30 years of industry experience, Factory Controls provides a wide range of PLC controllers obtained from leading automation system manufacturers globally.5 The aim is to provide solutions that empower industrial clients by allowing them full authority over their plant operations.

Actuators: The Muscle of Automation Systems

We use our bones and muscles to lift, move around, swing, and drag heavy objects to create goods for the market. Industrial automation accomplishes this task by combining actuators, valves, engines, and pumps. Compared to artificial intelligence, these are not novel concepts, and much of the technology, such as hydraulics and electrical motors, has existed for a long time.6

Nevertheless, improvements in battery packs and permanent-magnetic brushless electrical motors have rendered them smaller (and thus more energy-dense) and more effective, increasing the adoption of various actuators and opening up new avenues for automation.

According to a market report,6 the industrial automation business generated an astounding $214 billion at the end of 2021. The market is still expanding at an astounding rate, largely thanks to breakthroughs in electric actuators.

Emerging Technologies in the Industrial Automation Systems

Companies use modern technologies to overcome ordinary workflow issues. The industrial automation sector is undergoing continuous transformation due to the development and use of digital technologies.

The market for industrial automation will be valued at approximately $295 billion by 2028. The emergence of data-driven operations in businesses has led to a greater demand for innovative technologies.

Programmable logic controllers have changed throughout time. They give a low-cost and accurate method of process control. Soft PLCs are automation equipment that uses software to control operations. Software solutions enhance the performance, adaptability, and flexibility of PLCs.7 Soft PLCs are one of the potential game-changing industrial technologies. From 2023 to 2028, the PLC market is anticipated to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 4.23%.7

Digital twins are digital replicas of complex physical systems that can use real and digital data to improve and imitate industrial performance.8 Standardization of protocols and data standards could break down data silos, allowing a Digital Twin to substantially enhance real-world machine and line efficiency. According to some forecasters, the digital twin market will expand from 6.9 billion USD in 2022 to 73.5 billion USD by 2027.8

Conclusion

In the upcoming years, automation systems will likely dominate a number of industries. The outstanding expansion of the industrial automation market may be attributed to several factors, including the advancement of sensors, improvements in network communication protocols, complex controllers, and effective actuators.

Innovations like soft PLCs and digital twins will significantly influence the path of industrial automation. To meet the demands of a fast changing industrial automation market and stay competitive, businesses must adopt these innovative technologies.

References and Further Reading

Ismail, A., 2023. What is Industrial Automation and What are its Components?. [Online] Available at: https://automationforum.co/what-is-industrial-automation-2/

MROSupply, 2023. Types of Sensors Used in Industrial Automation. [Online] Available at: https://www.mrosupply.com/blog/sensors-used-in-industrial-automation/

Javaid, M. et al., 2021. Significance of sensors for industry 4.0: Roles, capabilities, and applications. Sensors International.

Lueftner, R., 2019. Communication Networks in Automation. Berlin: Wiley-VCH.

Factory Controls, 2019. PLC Controllers For Industrial Automation Systems. [Online] Available at: https://www.factorycontrols.com.au/products/automation-systems/programmable-controllers

JHFoster, 2022. The Role of Electric Actuators in Automation. [Online] Available at: https://jhfoster.com/automation-blogs/the-role-of-electric-actuators-in-automation/

Ashley, 2023. Key Electronic Components in the Industrial Automation Ecosystem. [Online] Available at: https://www.easybom.com/blog/a/key-electronic-components-in-the-industrial-automation-ecosystem

Kosmopoulos, C., 2022. The Benefits of Using a Digital Twin in Automation. [Online]

Disclaimer: The views expressed here are those of the author expressed in their private capacity and do not necessarily represent the views of AZoM.com Limited T/A AZoNetwork the owner and operator of this website. This disclaimer forms part of the Terms and conditions of use of this website.

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