Intelligent building automation

Beckhoff implements open automation systems in almost any industry sector worldwide. Due to its open interfaces based on IT and Windows standards, the PC- and Ethernet-based control solution from Beckhoff is inherently extremely well suited for building technology. Traditionally, the integrated control technology has mainly been used in office buildings and industrial production facilities for Industrial Building Automation, although more recently Home Automation has become an expanding market.

The diverse functions of a building are based on thousands of data points that have to be acquired, transferred, interpreted centrally and visualised. Modern facility management must be able to respond flexibly and quickly to changes in the building and its utilisation. Using conventional control technology and conventional cabling, this task would involve excessive engineering and installation effort.

Ethernet for consistent building communication
Beckhoff building automation enables the integration of the IT and automation worlds using PC-based control technology and communication standards such as Ethernet or TCP/IP. Ethernet as an integrated communication system connects the data worlds of office and building services. The existing data management infrastructure can be utilised both for the IT network and for the building automation.

With the resolute application of Ethernet from the sensor/actuator level via the PC level to the management level, all building users share a common data network. This means that not only distributed HVAC sensors and actuators, but also intelligent components such as operating panels can communicate directly with higher-level PC controllers via network cabling. Dual data management is no longer required.

In addition to data communication for building services, high-performance Ethernet with high transfer rates offers sufficient reserve capacity for image and voice data, multimedia functions such as “Voice over IP”, or communication via PDAs, mobile phones or webcams. Cost-effective standard components such as hubs, switches, cables and connectors can be used for building automation.

All data points in a single system
The Beckhoff Bus Terminal system for the interfacing of data points not only supports all common sensors and actuators, but also integrates all main bus systems via corresponding Bus Coupler types. With over 200 different Bus Terminals, Beckhoff offers the right technology for all data points and for all signal types. The Bus Terminals make retrofitting of building processes significantly simpler and faster. Subordinate subsystems such as EIB, LON, DALI, MP-Bus or RS232/RS485 serial interfaces can be integrated via communication Bus Terminals. Radio sensors with EnOcean technology can be coupled via an appropriate adapter.

The automation kit for flexible building automation
PC-based control technology utilises open standard technologies, such as the Windows operating systems, that are available worldwide. PCs offer “on-board” functionalities such as internet connection for remote diagnostics and maintenance or e-mail. Open standards such as OPC, XML, web service or MODBUS/TCP are used for interfacing the software with visualisation systems or audio-visual equipment, for example. Since the PC control system is freely programmable, it is possible to implement almost any functionality. If the room layout changes, the building control system quickly adapts to the modified requirements: Modified functions don‘t have to be rewired, but can be reconfigured conveniently via software.

Building automation with Ethernet meets the high demands in terms of flexibility and comfort. System-wide compatibility means that devices can be installed or retrofitted at any point in the building. The adaptable and flexible Beckhoff automation kit matches the individuality of the architecture and the building utilisation. The Beckhoff automation concept is designed flexibly and allows the implementation of a modular building automation system.