Wireless lighting controls installed 70% faster than wired systems

The innovative solution was triggered by the needs of European installers and commercial end-users, who need to install products quickly and efficiently due to tight time requirements – which if not met, can lead to a loss of revenue. In answer to this, the simple and scalable Vivesystem installs up to 70% faster than wired systems, reducing labour time and cost. 

What’s more, as of 1^st April 2018, EPC regulations demand landlord’s premises meet a minimum energy standard, meaning retrofitted offices must be remodelled in the most efficient way possible. To help meet regulations, Vive offers a limited impact on buildings through the use of wireless technology.

For building owners and facilities managers, Vive represents a flexible lighting control solution that easily transforms any building into a more versatile and productive environment. Scalable components allow owners to start small with one room, and progress to full floors, full buildings, and even to a multi-building campus, all managed seamlessly as a single system. Vive has also been proven to save energy and improve efficiency of building operations.

To contractors, Vive represents a reliable, simple, time-saving product that is versatile enough to control all light sources in any size commercial building. It adds value to any job, whilst reducing call-backs.

David Ribbons, Senior Director of Sales, Europe & Africa at Lutron said: “We are delighted to bring to market a solution that addresses the needs of our European customers on so many levels. The simplicity and speed of installation means Vive is perfect for retrofit and renovation of existing and listed buildings, and also meets regulations for new buildings.” Ribbons continues, “We’re proud that Vive can improve building productivity from a maintenance point of view, while also minimising downtime and disruption to work for occupants. The fact that it can be used on any smartphone, tablet, or PC also makes it very intuitive and easy to use, and creates a more comfortable environment for occupiers all round.”

Design flexibility
Lighting control saves energy and promotes productivity; however, existing buildings, which account for billions of square metres of potential lighting retrofits, face significant challenges with lighting controls that require extensive new wiring, or are expensive and disruptive to the space. Vive offers a simple and scalable solution, allowing anything from area switching and presence detection, to individual wireless control of each fitting, all tied together with a wireless hub for central control and monitoring. Controls can be easily matched to a fixture package — switching, DALI, 0 –10V, in any combination – and the system can be expanded at any time, adding control options, new areas and upgrading software to add new features.

Wireless installation
Vive wireless solutions install up to 70% faster than wired systems. Setup is as easy as pushing a button or using a smart device through an intuitive app, meaning there is no manufacturer commissioning required, which further reduces time and labour cost. Meeting changing space needs and budget requirements is simple, as this can be scaled up or down at any time without any new wiring, which in turn eliminates the needs for call backs. By using BACnet protocol, it is also simple to connect with other building systems at the time of initial installation or when there is a decision to expand.

Components
Vive leverages Lutron’s super reliable Clear Connect RF wireless technology. The Vive system components include load controllers, sensors, wireless remotes, and a wireless hub. Vive can seamlessly integrate via BACnet with other building/energy management, HVAC, IT and audio-video systems. Lutron sensors employ patented XCT sensing technology which provides exceptional prevention of false-ons and false-offs, and recognises the difference between fine human motion and background noise.

Maximise productivity and building performance
Vive allows facilities managers and building owners to monitor, adjust and manage their system from any smart device, and quickly adjust lighting controls to accommodate building churn, improve occupant comfort and enhance energy efficiency. Vive Vue software also provides the ability to tie multiple Vive hubs together in one software interface. Built with the Vive wireless system, Vive Vue software delivers the advanced intelligence necessary for today’s smart buildings and the IoT.  

In terms of energy savings, it is a fact that lighting uses more electricity than any other building system. However, Lutron solutions can save up to 60% or more of that lighting energy, with ViveVue software enabling the ability to monitor energy saving over time.