Building Systems Retrofitted with Building Automation System (BAS): Parametric Design Using TRIZ Methodology and Life Cycle Assessment

Abstract

Building automation system (BAS) deals with the interconnection and automation of lighting, HVAC, and home appliances over a communication network for remote monitoring and controlling. This paper aims to study the life cycle assessment (LCA) of BAS by using SimaPro 8.4 and then synthesizing various parametric design options with the help of TRIZ methodology. Based on which, a retrofit room automation module was devised with the help of sensors, smart plugs and Arduino platform. This module was studied for sustainability indicators thereby increasing the energy and environmental efficiency of the module by adding features like daylight harvesting and demand-based ventilation. The findings of this study show that at present buildings retrofitted with BAS have a higher environmental impact as compared to non-automated buildings due to high energy demand for manufacturing. Hence, local manufacturing and better parametric design solutions are needed for making this technology sustainable. The results obtained from this study show us that the concept of smart buildings when enhanced with innovative TRIZ-based parametric design solutions can help us achieve the elusive goal of smart and sustainable cities in the future.