The new BACnet/IP solution from BECKHOFF features a wide range of functions to ensure maximum user flexibility as also efficient communication with other BACnet devices, according to Ajey Phatak, Head of Marketing and Business Development, BECKHOFF Automation Pvt Ltd.

Please tell us about your offerings at ACREX.
The new generation in Building Control is TwinCAT 3 Building Automation. Open Automation concept using powerful controllers allows implementation of all building automation functions that are important. Among these are lighting, facade control, scaling functions, filter blocks, timer functions and peak load limiter for energy optimisation.

Beckhoff controllers support the BACnet Building Controller profile (BBC). Besides, the new BACnet/IP solution features a wide range of client functions to ensure maximum user flexibility and an efficient communication with other BACnet devices. It also includes room automation functions for lighting, shading and air-conditioning. Visitors will be able to experience features at the TwinCAT 3 Building Automation Workstation, and know more about using the TwinCAT 3 software.

The BACnet/IP solution allows users to access all BACnet objects directly from the PLC and visualisation system to monitor and if required modify their status. Prefinished PLC blocks reduce engineering effort to a minimum. Additionally, users can choose from controllers designed for a few hundred to thousands of BACnet objects, enabling them to configure a solution tmeeting needs for cost and performance. See us at Hall 2, Booth A91.

What are the latest trends and innovations in building automation?
The new trends include predictive maintenance of the HVAC equipment’s, water pumping systems, in addition to power utility equipment installed in buildings. Another need is monitoring air quality, the measurement of which is becoming more of a necessity. Further, there is IoT-supported complex applications and real-time data accessibility by its users. Internet of Things (IoT) can enable green building concept and the trend is to implement IoT for managing the over energy efficiency of the building asset.

How can engineering and control of buildings be made more efficient?
Energy-efficient measures can be integrated into new construction or retrofitted into an existing building. Control systems compliant with BACnet, OPC UA, LON networks enable easy integration of services with high efficiency and lowered cost. Hence, the system requires openness. Software like TwinCAT 3 Building Automation has been developed to integrate multiple speciality products most efficiently. It supports measurement of various operating conditions, utility and energy parameters, weather parameters, Illumination levels, Air Quality, CO2 levels etc., communicates on open standards like BACnet, OPC/UA to central servers or the cloud and also take control actions. Machine learning, Artificial Intelligence can make decisions, allaying human dependency. The IT software enables users and consumers; occupants are empowered to use building facilities. This requires high calibre engineering of control systems for implementing building automation in the early stages.

Control systems compliant with BACnet, OPC UA, LON networks enable easy integration of services with high efficiency and lowered cost.
Ajey Phatak,
Head of Marketing and Business Development, BECKHOFF Automation Pvt Ltd