What is Building Management System and how it works?
In today’s technological era, a Building Management System (BMS), also known as a Building Automation and Control System (BACS), plays a significant role in enhancing the overall functionality of a building. A BMS is a computer-based solution that seamlessly integrates and regulates various building systems. These encompass essential components like building automation, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), lighting, security, fire alarm, and access control.
What is the purpose of a building management system?
The primary objective of a Building Management System is to increase the operational efficiency, comfort, and safety of a building while simultaneously reduce energy consumption and operational expenses. ‘In recent years the emphasis has moved towards integrating all a building’s systems via centralized building management systems (BMS) to provide a more intelligent approach to the facility management, safety and energy control in building management systems (IBMS).’ (1)
Key Operations of Building Management Systems
Here are the fundamental steps it follows:
- Data Collection: BMS relies on sensors strategically placed around the building to collect data. These sensors measure variables such as temperature, humidity, room occupancy, and light levels.
- Data Processing: BMS takes in the gathered data, conducts analysis to ascertain the building’s current state and trends, and then determines the necessary actions.
- Controlling: Based on data analysis, BMS dispatches control signals. For instance, it can adjust the HVAC system’s cooling or heating settings or manipulate lighting levels.
Building Management Systems offer a centralized interface that empowers building managers and operators to effortlessly oversee their building systems. This central monitoring is usually presented through a web-based control panel or a computer workstation. Users can receive notifications, real-time data updates, and the ability to modify system settings. BMS facilitates energy management and optimization as well. Operators can track energy consumption trends, identify inefficiencies, and implement energy-saving measures. BMS can also fine-tune setpoints, schedule equipment operations, and change control strategies. In case of issues, the system is equipped to detect and resolve problems efficiently. Thanks to artificial intelligence, the system can assess, diagnose, and recommend optimal solutions (1). Moreover, BMS constantly evaluates equipment functionality and identifies potential problems. It can generate maintenance notifications, monitor equipment uptime, and offer diagnostics to troubleshoot issues.
Benefits of BMS
The advantages of a Building Management System are plenty, including enhanced operational efficiency, centralized control and monitoring, increased comfort, and reduced energy consumption. It also simplifies facility management by consolidating data management and monitoring. Notably, an efficient BMS should incorporate smart solutions for energy management and efficiency with provisions for automated and remote control. Explore both wireless and wired solutions offered by Next Industries for applications of this nature. These solutions are capable of transmitting data over extended distances and in challenging environmental conditions.
In conclusion, a Building Management System is the cornerstone of modern building efficiency. It empowers facility managers to optimize operations, reduce energy consumption, and ensure occupant comfort, making it an indispensable tool in today’s smart building landscape.
Reference:
- Clark, P. Mehta, Artificial intelligence and networking in integrated building management systems, Automation in Construction, Volume 6, Issues 5–6, 1997, Pages 481-498, ISSN 0926-5805, https://doi.org/10.1016/S0926-5805(97)00026-5