The Internet of Things (IoT) has the huge potential to revolutionize the way we build and own our smart homes. In fact, the invention of smart appliances—like fridges, microwaves, or lighting systems—is one of the most well-known applications of IoT technology, and this type of tech is becoming mainstream in buildings, living rooms, and kitchens across the world.
With IoT-enabled devices, home-owners can connect every aspect of their home’s infrastructure to smartphones, wearables, or computers. At the moment, this allows them to schedule cooking, change the temperature in fridges, and start coffee machines remotely, saving time. But these basic applications are far from the limits of what IoT technology can achieve. We think there’s much more to be done, and so let’s look at some ideas.
Can IoT automate and increase safety in public and private buildings?
At the moment, house builders and property companies are looking at ways to create building management systems (BMS) across their property portfolios. These systems involve using an array of sensors located around the property, which provide real-time information about things like temperature, air flow, humidity, smoke levels, and even the level of toxins or particles in and around the building.
Just as importantly, they also provide feedback regarding energy consumption. By using the data gathered from BMS sensors, managers can then create automated processes to raise energy efficiency and optimize the experience of living (or working) in the building. You might not notice it as a shopper or office worker, but the buildings you enter could already be part of the IoT via this kind of setup.
Smart home automation for children and disabled residents
While BMS systems are generally large-scale and focused on the bottom line, there are also IoT applications that make buildings “smarter” for residents with particular needs. For example, if the house is inhabited by older residents, sensors can be installed, which measure temperature levels and ensure that the ambient conditions remain within acceptable parameters. They can even measure the activity levels of residents, connecting the data with medical professionals who can then instantly see whether older people or disabled residents are experiencing difficulties. Similar systems can be used to ensure that babies don’t leave safe spaces, and be worn by pets to monitor their activities. It’s even possible to imagine creating wearable light sensors which combine with shutters or curtains to create optimal illumination levels.
From safety measures for older people to BMS systems for entire housing developments, IoT is changing the way people inhabit homes, public places, and work spaces.
Looking for an IoT partner to develop a smart building application?
Developing a smart building app for your building management system doesn’t have to be a big challenge. At Rattle Tech, we make launching a smart building application as painless as possible. We provide smart city and smart home mobile apps, and are an affordable, out-of-the-box solution for Android and iOS users.
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