The term “Internet of Things” is a growing topic of conversation. What exactly is the Internet of Things (IoT) and what does smart lighting have to do with it?
What is IoT?
IoT stands for the ‘Internet of Things,’ and it’s in reference to all of the devices worldwide that are connected to the internet while sharing data. IoT is often used when talking about devices that would typically not be expected to have an internet connection, and that can interact with the network independently of human actions, such as smart TVs, smart speakers, toys, wearables and smart appliances. IoT has been marked as ‘the next industrial revolution’.
Smart Lighting and IoT
Smart lighting is playing an important role in unleashing the power of IoT and enabling smart lighting applications with more benefits. For instance, when smart lighting is utilized in commercial buildings, employees will be able to control lighting through their smartphones or tablets. The lights throughout the building can be set to brighten or dim based on how much natural light is let through. Additionally, office spaces and conference room lighting can be adjusted based on occupancy or user preference.
How Does Smart Lighting Work?
Most smart lighting uses mesh networking. Each smart light will connect to its nearest network, and this network is controlled by a hub connected to a network router. This hub allows users to access control of smart lights from a smartphone or tablet. However, not all smart systems require a hub or even an internet connection. The HALO Home Smart Lighting System from Cooper Lighting Solutions offers a convenient way to control your lighting via Bluetooth connection using any smart device; no internet or hub required.
Why is IoT Adopting Smart Lighting Systems?
In addition to the automation, smart lighting offers several advantages over traditional lighting:
- Operational and energy savings – IBM states that the daily operation of a building represents over 70% of the building’s total cost. Smart lighting uses CFL or LED bulbs instead of incandescent bulbs, which can greatly reduce the amount of electricity needed to light a room. An ENERGY STAR®️–certified smart bulb uses 70 to 90 percent less energy than a traditional bulb.
- Longer life span – The average incandescent bulb has a lifespan of 750 to 2,000 hours. In contrast, the LED smart lights can work continuously for 35,000 to 50,000 hours.
- Increased security – Many of the best smart-lighting options include motion-detection features, so bulbs turn on or off depending on whether someone is in the room. This feature can be programmed to send alerts to mobile devices when unexpected motion is detected, both inside or outdoors.
- Easy-to-use light customization – Smart bulbs can be preset to turn on when employees arrive at work, dim toward the end of the night or turn off at specified times.
IoT and the Industrial Revolution of Smart Lighting
IoT is bringing smart lighting to the next level. As the number of smartphones and smart lighting applications grows, our work environments will be a hub for smart devices. The new era of smart lighting and IoT will revolutionize the way we control lights and all operating systems based on space’s occupant activity. IoT and smart lighting will also bring significant energy savings. For this industrial revolution to be successful, we will need to put our trust in these smart devices and the IoT.
Nevada Sales Agency
If you’re interested in making small lighting technology part of your next project, contact us at Nevada Sales Agency. We’ll work with you to find the perfect smart lighting fixtures to fit your design!
