November 24, 2003—Manufacturers of heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) control systems in North America are working toward achieving interoperability between disparate building management systems and other equipment, according to Frost & Sullivan, an international growth consultancy.
Developing an open protocol and communications platform has become necessary as end users have incorporated integrated building management systems to meet high standards in energy efficiency, comfort requirements, and environmental pressures. Users can avoid large upfront investment as viable, generic control solutions are likely to enable step-by-step upgradation of their HVAC systems.
Frost & Sullivan analysts add that manufacturers face challenges in the form of changing customer requirements that demand continual improvements and sophisticated HVAC systems providing direct digital control (DDC). They also say manufacturers must develop and test flexible options in terms of equipment refurbishing, switching of energy sources, better zone control, energy recovery systems, or highly efficient new equipment to assist at peak loads or take over during low demands.
