'Smart' buildings: the intelligence behind the automation

Automation brings forth a new generation of comfort, convenience, cost savings and flexibility that were once not possible – but what are the smarts behind the automation?

Learn about how KNX communications systems work behind-the-scenes to transform the places we work, live, learn and enjoy our leisure activities.

What is KNX?

KNX is a standardised worldwide network communications protocol for building-management systems. As a proud KNX member, Legrand offers a wide range of KNX-compatible products for comfort, convenience and cost savings.

Enhanced user experience

KNX solutions can be fine-tuned to automate various room functions in a way that enhances the user experience. For example, with an ability to manage all types of light sources—including LEDs, DALI and 1-10 V ballasts—KNX systems can automatically adjust lighting in response to changing requirements.

Legrand’s ‘smart’ solutions

As a leader in electrical and digital building infrastructures, Legrand is driving a new generation of automation for residential and commercial projects. Using BUS/KNX solutions, occupants are now armed with the tools, giving them control of a building.

Wire up

For optimised control, Legrand’s range of Arteor wiring devices provide multiple functions for managing lighting, shutters, scenarios, socket outlets and temperature. Whether the user prefers manual or automated control units, Arteor has them covered for performance, aesthetics and quality.

The Arteor range is available in 17 outstanding finishes, all made from original materials which provide a unique personality to each look. This perfectly complements the proven, robust and top quality system of KNX.

Go ‘daylighting’ with sensors

Legrand’s range of sensors provide information on usage/activity, with passive infrared detection (PIR) used for detecting wide-amplitude movements such as walking, and combined PIR/ultrasound (PIR/US) for detection of smaller movements.

The controllers—also called actuators—receive commands from the control units and have different outputs to manage lighting and other loads. The infrastructure devices power, connect and interface the various system components, and also allow integration with third-party platforms.

Sensors are perfect for ‘daylighting’, which is an approach that utilises natural light to save energy especially in office environments. Typically, each section of an office will have a designated target lux levels appropriate to the activities carried out there. As natural light levels increase, the artificial lighting adjacent to windows can be dimmed down to balance the overall level.

Flexible future

Without the requirement for costly and disruptive rewiring, KNX can adapt as building requirements change. This versatility means that in conjunction with simplifying the provision of cost-effective and tailored levels of user comfort and convenience today, a KNX solution has the smarts to deliver operational cost savings in our buildings long into the future.  www.legrand.com.au

 

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