KNX, EnOcean improve connectivity
With the gateways KNX ENO 630, 632 and 634, Weinzierl Engineering creates a platform that enables the integration of EnOcean-based sensors and actuators into a KNX building control network. Thus, these sensors now can be accessed directly from KNX nodes. The bi-directional connectivity of both technologies enables system planners to implement flexible building automation systems.
KNX and EnOcean are to widespread standards in building automation. Both offer different features and advantages in installation, function and operation. The new gateways from Weinzierl bring together the advantages of both standards and open new perspectives to implement intelligent networking and controls.
EnOcean, a battery-less technology that makes use of energy harvesting, employs the ISO/IEC 14543-3-10 radio standard as well as standardized usage profiles described in EnOcean Equipment Profiles 2.5 (EPP 2.5). The gateways make use of this open interface to integrate EnOcean-based devices into KNX networks. Thus, system integrators get access to more than 1000 energy-autonomous EnOcean devices to integrate them into KNX-based building systems. This includes battery-less switches, intelligent window handles, sensors for temperature, humidity and light intensity as well as presence detectors and a broad variety of actuators for light, ventilation and heating control.
An example for such an automation system could be a commercial building with open office structures. In such a building, partition walls are built only when a new tenant moves in. The KNX-based control infrastructure however can be integrated during the construction. Building managers can install the EnOcean-based sensors and switches according to the individual needs of the respective tenant.
Similarly, a smart home system based on KNX can be enhanced later by a battery-less EnOcean radio solution, for instance to install an Ambient Assistant Living solution or to add comfort or security solutions for the home.
All new gateways offer a channel structure. The KNX ENO 634, for example, has 32 channels that can be configured individually across the KNX bus by means of the ETS software. The gateway is equipped with a graphic display to learn the EnOcean devices within its reach.
At the same time, EnOcean has published an updated its EPP profiles to further drive interoperability of EnOcean-based products from different vendors. For the first time, the specification pools applications with similar properties to so-called profile families. This concept incorporates a defined framework for new product and profile developments, facilitating the creation of new applications and their allocation within the specs framework. For additional product designs and applications, EPP contains a specific area, so called Variable Length Data Profiles (VLDs). This enables OEMs to implement a variety of products with flexible application spectra. An example would be an energy-autonomous radiator valve that generates its electric power exclusively through heat but communicates with a solar-powered room control system.
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