The benefits of SmartCore and MQTT for all
MQTT and smart buildings go hand in hand. If you're from the IoT world, you'll be familiar with it, but for those of you who aren't, let's start at the beginning.
MQTT is a protocol (a language) used to communicate with sensors and devices in buildings, making them smart. There are various protocols to choose from to create an intelligent building, and they all have advantages and disadvantages, but focusing on MQTT, the main benefits are:
• Lightweight and Efficient
• Bi-directional Communications
• Scale to Millions of Things
• Reliable Message Delivery
• Support for Unreliable Networks
• Security Enabled
So, what exactly is MQTT?
An open OASIS and ISO standard lightweight, publish-subscribe network protocol that transports messages between devices. It is widely used in industrial IoT and as a communication channel by Microsoft Azure and Facebook.
How does it work?
Smart buildings require sensors and devices that work together to enhance business operations. The sensors capture essential data; MQTT communicates that information to another source where it can be viewed/interacted with. For example, data can be accessed via the cloud, analysed, and interacted with to create a healthier and smarter building.
A sensor sends information to the MQTT broker; the broker then publishes this 'information' whether that is to the cloud or a device on-premise (or both). These sources then subscribe information back, e.g., a Facility Manager could interact with the software and tell the lighting to go into night-time mode after 6 pm if no one is present. This information is communicated back to the MQTT broker and, therefore, to the devices, causing the action to happen. This allows SmartCore to communicate with the building and produce the lighting experience required.
The data is sent in small, individual packets but, when aggregated together, creates massive data potential. This makes the solution ideal for low bandwidth, high latency, unreliable networks.
With MQTT and SmartCore working together, there are benefits to be had from all areas of the construction industry.
MQTT with SmartCore for architects
The ability to integrate MQTT with SmartCore opens new potential and creative opportunities that have only recently become available.
Easier to create healthy spaces
It is now easier to design connected and smart buildings with seamless integration. There are many benefits for different aspects of a space and the occupant's health and wellbeing within it.
Design with the latest dynamic systems
The overall aesthetic of each space within a building is essential for the various tasks carried out. Lighting also plays a huge role in being able to create something visually pleasing.
Having the ability to react dynamically to various cues, whether from a safety point of view, by integrating with BMS, security, or other systems. Or whether it is a reaction to a voice command or the amount of daylight shining through the window - MQTT allows SmartCore to receive this data and act quickly and seamlessly; real-time changes create the very best experience for building occupants.
A building fit for purpose
The various light-scenes available are designed to accommodate user’s needs; additional scenes can also be easily added. For example, an employee could walk into a meeting room within an office environment they have booked and enable 'presentation mode,' whether through a tablet interface, smart switch, or voice control. This command can cause the blinds to close, the TV to turn on, the lighting to dim, and the air conditioning to turn on.
Meet your sustainability targets
Virtual and physical sensors ensure that electricity waste is kept to a minimum, improving a building's sustainability.
Futureproof systems
SmartCore allows a building to become part of the internet of things via smart lighting software. The open protocol allows for system adaptions as and when required.
The possibilities are endless, and MQTT is a route to creating smarter, healthier buildings.
MQTT with SmartCore for Lighting Manufacturers
SmartCore is protocol-agnostic; therefore, MQTT is one of the many ways to integrate with lighting products to deliver outstanding results.
Your products can provide the best user experience
SmartCore can act as a gateway into the 'smart' world, giving you the control software required to create the best experience for the end-user. This can be via an amBX branded or a white-label solution.
Traditionally, much of the lighting industry was siloed, closed systems where products could only communicate with a limited selection of devices. This has changes as client needs have evolved.
Take your offer beyond basic
Traditional on/off switches, where lighting has one colour, intensity, and direction, is no longer fit for purpose. MQTT opens the ability to send large amounts of sensor data about the environment and send commands back to devices (lights), taking physical lighting capabilities to the next level. Various light-scenes can be selected or triggered for different tasks or to help create different moods. Our advanced Circadian Plus software supports user health and wellbeing as their circadian cycle can maintain its natural rhythm.
MQTT with SmartCore for BMS Companies
Lighting control is often managed in a BMS, but the interoperable SmartCore platform offers additional features and benefits that can be integrated to provide other capabilities.
Communicate with previously problematic protocols
With the SmatCore platform, your BMS systems will be able to communicate with protocols such as MQTT that they may struggle to communicate with by themselves.
Extend your functionality
Working together, the BMS and SmartCore can extend your product offering, helping to produce smart, healthy buildings.
References:
https://behrtech.com/blog/mqtt-in-the-iot-architecture/
https://www.electronicspecifier.com/products/iot/iot-communication-made-easy-using-mqtt
https://internetofthingsagenda.techtarget.com/definition/MQTT-MQ-Telemetry-Transport