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Integrated Building Management System Research Project

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is currently conducting research into an integrated building management system (IBMS).

Project Description

This project seeks to develop an open integration framework that allows multivendor systems to interoperate seamlessly using internet protocols. The applicant will create an integrated control platform for implementing new integrated control strategies and to enable additional enterprise control applications, such as demand response. The project team seeks to develop several strategies that take advantage of the sensors and functionality of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC); security; and information and communication technologies (ICT) subsystems; and develop a platform and interface of rule-based, fault detection and diagnostic (FDD) algorithms. A library of advanced ICT strategies with the highest energy savings potential and greatest applicability will be developed. Automated FDD algorithms will be used to identify, monetize, and prioritize faults to help facility staff minimize energy and maintenance costs.

Project Partners

Research is being undertaken by DOE and Johnson Controls, Inc.

Project Goals

The goals of this project include applying open integration middleware to provide a significantly greater level of integration and data transfer across building subsystems. The project attempts to create a key enabling technology for achieving net-zero energy, high-performance buildings over the next decade by enabling energy reducing control applications. At the completion of the project, this system will be ready to be deployed commercially to an existing market channel, ensuring job creation and preservation within the building controls industry.

Benefits and Impacts

Developing an IBMS that will transform traditional building control systems by intelligently integrating disparate building systems could achieve a 10% – 30% increase in building energy efficiency through integration and automated fault detection, enabling higher penetration of renewable energy sources, and providing for more comfortable and productive buildings.

Related Links

•  American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Grant Award Summary
• Johnson Controls, Inc.

Contact Information

Alan Schroeder
alan.schroeder@ee.doe.gov