Applying BAS to Help Users Conserve Energy

Jim Coogan, PE, Siemens

The big goal is to consume only as much energy as the lab mission requires. This depends on the way the users behave and the way the building responds to them. BAS functions and User Interfaces are designed to assist and encourage the action that makes the building work effectively and efficiently. Lab workers, building operators and safety officers connect at different levels of the system through interfaces designed for their needs. At the fume hood, the operator's panel reminds users to close the hood with a combination of messages: audible, graphic and text. A special energy efficiency indicator tells the user how his current actions affect energy consumption. If the green indicator turns red, one touch of the button tells the user improve his behavior. At the room level, this same UI concept applies to the room temperature adjustment and the light switches. One touch restores efficient settings, and turns the indicator green again. With this simple operating paradigm the BAS helps the user conserve energy. There are passive interfaces as well. Room ventilation rates increase when workers are present, and setback when sensors indicate less demand. The building responds to workers, match energy consumption to the user's needs. Building operators at work station monitor alarms. When needed, they apply more powerful analysis tools to examine performance in detail. With the range of tools, the operator gets the information necessary to maintain function and efficiency. Safety officers connect through common communication tools. The BAS reaches out to them with immediate notification for selected set of safety related events.

Biography:

Jim Coogan, P.E., is a Principal in product development and applications at Siemens Building Technologies. In 30 years designing controls for mechanical systems, he has contributed to products ranging from simple room controllers to Internet-based operator interfaces, resulting in several patents. Jim has chaired several ASHRAE Committees including, Controls, Laboratory Systems, Standard Method of Test for Airflow Controls. Jim served on the AIHA committee that revised the Z9.5 Standard: Laboratory Ventilation. Jim participates in various programs with I2SL. Publications include technical papers on room pressurization and laboratory system commissioning. Jim earned his SB in mechanical engineering at MIT.

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