This post explores why embracing SoS is crucial for BAS to stay relevant in a world of digital twins and interconnected systems. We’ll draw on insights from Harbor Research’s recent white paper, “System of Systems and Digital Twins Orchestration,” to highlight the industry’s challenges and opportunities.
The building automation industry is at a crossroads. As buildings become increasingly complex and interconnected, traditional Building Automation Systems (BAS) struggle to keep up. Owners are demanding more—they want buildings that are not just smart but intelligent, responsive, and efficient. To meet these demands, BAS must evolve, and a System-of-Systems (SoS) approach is the key to this evolution.
The Rise of Complex Adaptive Systems
We’re living in an era of unprecedented technological convergence. The lines between physical and digital worlds are blurring, and buildings are becoming microcosms of this interconnectedness. As the white paper points out, we’ve moved beyond simple automation to a world of “complex adaptive systems,” where multiple technologies interact and influence each other.
Think of a modern building: HVAC, lighting, security, access control, and even occupant behavior data all generate valuable information. A SoS approach allows these disparate systems to work together, creating a truly intelligent building that can adapt to changing conditions and optimize performance in real-time.
The Digital Twin Imperative
The concept of a “digital twin” is gaining traction in the building industry. A digital twin is a virtual representation of a physical asset, in this case, a building. It allows for simulation, analysis, and optimization of building performance before, during, and after construction.
As the white paper emphasizes, digital twins rely on seamlessly integrating data from various sources. This is where SoS becomes crucial. By enabling interoperability between building systems, SoS provides the foundation for creating and maintaining accurate and valuable digital twins.
Key Takeaways for BAS Professionals
Here’s what BAS vendors, channel partners, and engineers need to consider in light of the SoS approach:
- Embrace Openness: Proprietary systems are a barrier to SoS. Open standards and protocols are essential for seamless data exchange and interoperability.
- Focus on Interoperability: Interoperability is not just about integration; it’s about enabling systems to understand and communicate with each other meaningfully. The white paper highlights the importance of a “common metamodel” to achieve this.
- Adopt Dynamic Orchestration: Buildings are dynamic environments. SoS requires tools and platforms that can orchestrate system interactions in real time based on changing conditions. The white paper introduces the concept of “Connection Profiles” as a way to achieve this.
- Think Beyond the BAS: SoS extends beyond traditional building systems. Consider how BAS can interact with other systems, such as energy grids, transportation networks, and even city-wide infrastructure.
The Bottom Line
The future of building automation lies in embracing a System-of-Systems approach. By enabling interoperability, data sharing, and dynamic orchestration, SoS empowers BAS to create truly intelligent buildings that meet the evolving needs of owners and occupants. It’s time for the industry to step up and embrace this new paradigm.
