Smart homes over TCP/IP — EnOcean Alliance members present new solutions at this year's CeBIT

The wireless solutions from EnOcean draw power from their surroundings — from motion, light or temperature differences — to create fully energy-autonomous and maintenance-free automation solutions. The energy produced in this way is sufficient to transmit a wireless signal and turn on a light, for instance. Combination with the TCP/IP protocol offers the user possibilities comparable to familiar building automation systems. Use of the batteryless wireless technology not only saves installation costs, it also greatly simplifies the cabling of a building and allows flexible room configuration, because no wiring is needed at a later date.

Intelligent use of the internet

With its embedded intelligence system, BSC Computer GmbH has integrated EnOcean's wireless technology in TCP/IP-based building management. The core of this is the BSC-BoSe control software, connecting all terminals (meters, sensors, actuators) and measured data through a gateway to the data network. The system’s TCP/IP-based communication makes it possible to use all internet-enabled devices such as PCs, TVs or smartphones for building automation purposes. Visual display of metered values means that householders can more easily monitor specific conditions and consumption, and immediately recognise ways of saving energy.

The BSC system can also register and display momentary electricity, water and gas consumption, so it is also a suitable option in smart metering and smart grid solutions.

Batteryless in the clouds

Shaspa Research Ltd is showing how it combines smart home area technology with cloud-based applications: The Shaspa Application Service Framework, running in the cloud, integrates device management and service. The basis of this is IBM's Service Delivery Platform. The technology supports the open specification for energy harvesting wireless sensors developed by the EnOcean Alliance, allowing seamless integration of the batteryless technology. Here too there are a variety of application possibilities such as energy-saving systems in private households, green computing centers or assisted living.

Smart home hands-on

Visitors to the show can experience IT and building automation on the spot in the SmartCaravan of the SmartHome Initiative Deutschland e.V. right in the middle of CeBIT Life (hall 19, booth D06), demonstrating all the possibilities and advantages of home networking.

In addition, the No Energy initiative is presenting further solutions enabled by EnOcean technology at the booth of Germany's Ministry of the Environment (hall 9, booth B43/2).