The primary objective of the diagnostic system is to introduce state-of-the-art building monitoring and diagnostic information systems into Class A buildings for use by sophisticated building operators. This objective is based on our background research, which suggests that the proposed system meets the needs of operators and that they support the system we've designed. The concept is to deploy a permanent system to assist in continuous improvements in O&M to reduce energy use and operating costs. Our overall goal is to work with building owners and property managers in demonstrating the cost effectiveness of the proposed diagnostic system, thereby creating a market demand for such technology. We hope to demonstrate that the system could be cost effective when commercialized by the private sector.
The Phase 2 demonstration is oriented toward deploying the basic infrastructure for an advanced information system, including field tests of initial applications. These demonstrations will allow the controls industry to evaluate the value of such systems that greatly exceed today's current EMCS technology. Such a system is the starting point for more advanced, automated diagnostics, such as those based on fuzzy logic or neural networks. Our approach is to design the system as a rich, interactive information tool that will allow the operator to inquire about how well the building, system, or component is performing.
The diagnostic system will include metering various building systems and components to provide feedback on building performance. The users of the system will be building operators and property managers. The suppliers could be electric utilities, other third-party experts such as ESCOs, or control companies. The service would ideally be paid through savings in the operating budget. This technology gives the owners and managers a quantum leap in improving management in their buildings. It could reduce operating costs and make their spaces potentially more comfortable. It also gives them the choice of local or remote building diagnosis. The system to be demonstrated is an example of an entire wave of information based technology. It gives customers a direct entree into this entire new field.
The participants in the interviews were selected by their peers as the best in the field. The projects for the demonstrations will represent prestigious Class A buildings, chosen to attract the attention of the competitive building management industry. The managers of the pilot projects are willing to have tours through their sites for their competitors and industry associations.
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