The rapid evolution of IoT is transforming traditional environments into smart, data-driven ecosystems. One of the most promising applications is retrofitting legacy buildings—those not originally designed with modern technology—into smart, connected structures. The smart retrofitting offers numerous advantages, including enhanced energy efficiency, occupant comfort and security and safety. One key technology to achieve such transformation is LoRaWAN, a networking protocol which enables scalable, low-power, and cost-effective solutions for adding IoT capabilities to conventional buildings. Taking advantage of LoRaWAN, Milesight has emerged as an industry pioneer in smart building, successfully devising and deploying solutions to turn buildings into intelligent facilities.
Introduction to LoRaWAN Technology
LoRaWAN is a communication protocol specifically designed for IoT applications. Operating in the unlicensed spectrum, it enables long-range communication at low data rates, making it ideal for scenarios requiring extended battery life and robust connectivity over large areas. The technology uses a star-of-stars topology, connecting devices to a central gateway, which then communicates with a network server. This architecture is particularly well-suited for large buildings or multi-building urban settings.
Compared to other IoT protocols like Cellular, Zigbee, and NB-IoT, LoRaWAN excels in applications demanding long-range connectivity, low power consumption, and cost-effective deployment.
Challenges of Retrofitting Old Buildings
Structural Limitations
Old buildings often do not meet modern safety, accessibility, or energy efficiency standards. Updating these structures to comply with modern regulations can be costly and complex, requiring significant reinforcement or redesign of existing foundations and load-bearing walls.
Energy Efficiency
Poor insulation and outdated windows in old buildings can lead to significant energy loss. Upgrading these elements while preserving historical integrity is challenging, especially in buildings with architectural constraints. It might require significant changes to improve the building’s thermal performance.
Cost and Budget
Older buildings frequently present unforeseen issues, such as hidden structural problems or outdated materials, leading to high costs and project delays. Balancing the preservation of historical elements with modern upgrades often comes at a premium.
Compliance and Safety
Ensuring that all updates comply with current building codes, including fire safety, structural stability, and accessibility standards, can be complex. Additionally, addressing hazardous materials like asbestos or lead adds another layer of complexity and cost.
Steps to Transform Old Buildings Using LoRaWAN Technology
Assessment and Planning
Evaluate the building’s infrastructure, including electrical systems, internet connectivity, and structural integrity, to identify where IoT integration is feasible. Determine specific smart capabilities to implement, such as energy management, environmental monitoring, or security systems. As legacy buildings vary greatly in physical conditions and operational logic, solutions providers are expected to deliver retrofitting strategies catering to specific project needs. For example, Milesight mixes matches and adapts products to form unique solutions for different use scenarios - however specific or atypical.
Network Design
Plan the LoRaWAN network layout, including gateway placement for optimal coverage. Identify key integration points for sensors and devices, such as HVAC systems, lighting controls, and environmental sensors.
Sensor and Device Installation
Select and install LoRaWAN-compatible sensors based on the building’s needs, such as temperature, humidity, occupancy, or energy meters. Install them strategically and ensure they are properly connected to the LoRaWAN network and configured for data transmission.
Network Configuration and Integration
Install and configure LoRaWAN gateways to connect IoT sensors with the central network server. Ensure gateways are positioned to maximize coverage and minimize interference. Set up the LoRaWAN network server to manage data sent from the gateways, ensuring secure and reliable data transmission.
Testing and Optimization
Thoroughly test all IoT devices and systems to ensure proper function and communication within the LoRaWAN network. Continuously monitor system performance and make necessary adjustments for efficiency, reliability, and accuracy.
Data Management and System Integration
Collect data from sensors via the LoRaWAN network and store it in a centralized database or cloud platform. Use analytics tools to process and analyze the data, enabling real-time monitoring, trend analysis, and actionable insights. Mature solutions providers may provide software or platforms for data management and system integration. For example, Milesight offers a Development Platform that streamlines the integration of devices and data flow into third-party applications.
Long-Term Maintenance
The success of any IoT system depends as much on ongoing management as it does on the initial setup. The fleet of devices scattered across buildings may need to be adjusted or remotely upgraded later on. Capable solutions provider will anticipate the up-keeping needs and provide tools. For example, Milesight Development Platform features various device deployment and management functions besides those for vertical integration.
Case Studies and Real-World Applications
A product and solution pioneer in the smart building sector, Milesight has accumulated a vast number of success cases in the past 13 years since its establishment.
For example, in a Dubai office building project, Milesight successfully deployed a smart lighting control system, integrating 15 LoRaWAN controllers across 87 lighting units and a series of PIR & light sensors, reducing lighting energy consumption by 25% within a month, and saving 11,000 hours of lighting use monthly and approximately $3,000 annually. The system is scalable for further efficiency gains, achieving a return on investment in 2.67 years.
Another Milesight smart building project in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, achieved significant energy savings and enhanced environmental sustainability through an IoT-based energy management system. By deploying LoRaWAN sensors and real-time monitoring, the building improved occupant comfort by balancing temperature and humidity, enhanced indoor air quality by controlling pollutants, and optimized energy efficiency by adjusting HVAC operations based on occupancy and environmental data. These data-driven insights also supported better building management and space utilization.
Conclusion
LoRaWAN technology offers a powerful and practical solution for retrofitting legacy buildings into IoT-enabled smart structures. Its low power consumption, long-range communication capabilities, and ease of deployment make it ideal for retrofitting existing buildings without extensive infrastructure upgrades. With mature products based on this technology and strong solutions capabilities, Milesight has successfully enabled building owners to unlock the full potential of IoT, improving energy efficiency, security, and occupant comfort while reducing operational costs. Visit Milesight’s website to view its smart building solutions and success stories.
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