Commissioning Smart Lighting with SmartCore
Traditionally commissioning and installing smart lighting solutions has been a laborious, costly process. It is one of the factors that has hindered the wider adoption of truly smart, energy-efficient lighting that supports occupant needs.
At amBX, we recognise these issues, and our aim has always been to simplify the process, taking away the barriers and enabling smart buildings. Buildings can become smart through the lighting, sensors can be embedded within the lights, and as SmartCore is entirely software-based, it is flexible and adaptable. Our open architecture allows us to communicate and connect with other devices and systems within buildings, converging all data into one cohesive platform. This allows the lighting to react to dynamic effects from both triggers inside the building but also outside, like changing weather conditions. SmartCore is an integration layer that is essential when creating a unified solution.
The commissioning process usually involves lots of rules-based programming; this requires an experienced Engineer and can take days or weeks to complete. If the client then decides they would like to make changes to the lighting at a later date, they will have huge costs to pay again. This traditional method limits creativity, and the vast investment can mean that it is not a viable solution for many businesses.
The SmartCore Commissioning Tool allows a building's smart lighting to be configured quickly and easily, even remotely. You can watch the demo video here.
FloorPlan Functionality
As part of the SmartCore commissioning process, installers can upload the floorplan of the building they are working on. They can then simply drag and drop fixtures and devices on the actual floorplan making the design and setup very easy. The user can also select spaces and apply lighting behaviour to them; this allows an entire floor of a building to be set up in a matter of minutes instead of days.
You can learn more about this functionality here.
Emergency Lighting Tests
Emergency light monitoring has recently been added to SmartCore as a new feature; this ensures buildings remain compliant and it streamlines the audit process. The tests can now be set up directly in the Commissioning Tool; this includes the ability to set frequency and testing hours.
To find out more, click here.
No Rules-Based Programming
As an entirely software-based platform, SmartCore is easy and flexible to use and particularly quick when designing and setting up lighting systems. The space-centric design means each space can be completely different and suited to the tasks and people within that space.
Building Automation
SmartCore can integrate with a range of building protocols, including BACnet and MQTT, which allows interoperability with building and IoT systems. This presents opportunities for wider building control and monitoring. Devices and systems can also react to external and internal events.
Library of Light-Scenes
The library of light scenes allows Commissioning Engineers to quickly select a mood for a space this includes the light level and colour temperature of each space without any programming. This can also be changed instantly to create different moods, zones or react to things like a booked or occupied meeting room. Occupants can also have full control over this through a smart switch, dashboard or tablet interface.
Energy Management
The minimum and maximum power output can be amended to make the building more sustainable. Daylight harvesting can also be set, meaning artificial light dims down when there is sufficient natural light in space, and the sensitivity of that can be selected.
Project Archive
The Project Archive allows the Commissioning Engineer to create a full transferable version of the project. They can create the design off-site, in the comfort of their own office and then safely store it. This can be transferred to the live site, where the same tool can be used to upload it.