Controls

By Bagwat Mohan, Technical Operations Manager, DesignLights Consortium As energy efficiency and sustainability continue to shape the future of commercial buildings in the U.S., Networked Lighting Controls (NLC) have emerged as a transformative technology in the lighting industry. The 2020 Lighting Market Characterization Study, published by the Department of Energy reports that lighting consumes approximately [...]

According to a recent report by Berg Insight, the smart home market in Europe and North America is experiencing significant growth, with 126.2 million smart homes recorded in 2023. North America leads in market penetration, with 41% of households having at least one smart home product, totaling 60.8 million homes. By 2028, this number is [...]

Blockchain is having a transformative impact on smart gadgets and the Internet of Things (IoT), enhancing security, privacy, and functionality in everyday tech devices. Blockchain, often associated with cryptocurrencies, is being applied to smart gadgets to address critical challenges in security and data privacy. Its decentralized ledger system offers unparalleled security and transparency, making it [...]

  This standard defines the data model for sensors (focused on but not limited to outdoor lighting) to present to Network Lighting Controllers (NLC). The sensor applications and Item Types defined in this document are intended to leverage elements of existing data models such as Open Mobile Alliance, Digital Illumination Interface Alliance (DiiA), and TALQ. [...]

  The NAHB’s “What Home Buyers Really Want” study surveyed home buyer preferences for technology features in new homes. Here are the key findings and trends: Top Technology Features The study revealed that home buyers prioritize technology features that enhance energy efficiency and improve safety: Programmable thermostat (78% rated as essential/desirable) Security cameras (76%) Video [...]

The DALI Alliance, TALQ Consortium, and Zhaga Consortium have signed a liaison agreement to unify data streams for smart street lighting systems. This collaboration aims to enhance interoperability among outdoor lighting solutions, simplifying investment decisions for public and private sectors. DALI develops digital lighting control specifications based on the IEC 62386 standard, offering certification programs [...]

  FlashNet is a novel optical signal-based wireless device control technology developed by LiteTrace for managing commercial lighting systems. This patent-pending technology enables wireless control of Keilton+autani daylight harvesting sensors through precision light signals, allowing users to interact with their lighting devices from up to 50 feet away. How FlashNet Works A specially coded flashing [...]

Universal automation in building automation systems (BAS) refers to a new standardized approach that brings software-defined, vendor-agnostic control to building management and automation. Universal automation can also be applied to industrial automation systems, but this article will only address universal automation use in BAS. Here are key aspects of universal automation in the context of [...]

  Candiac, Quebec, Canada now boasts the first “smart” crosswalk in North America with lights embedded into the road surface, to improve pedestrian safety. Before pedestrians enter the crosswalk, sensors are triggered that turn on the lights to increase visibility for drivers to stop. The Candiac crosswalk is outside an elementary school to increase the [...]