Scan, peel, stick, and go!

 Managing simple deployment and adoption of sensors.

An innovative IoT device management platform that efficiently manages deployed IoT sensors has been launched by EnOcean. SmartStudio simplifies and accelerates the use and monitoring of connected sensors and the evaluation of collected data. Built for businesses of all sizes, SmartStudio enables effortless installation, real-time data insights, and seamless integration with existing workplace and building management systems.

Streamlined installation for fast deployment.
SmartStudio provides a seamless experience to sensor deployment. The combination of QR commissioning, wireless energy harvesting devices and the option to connect through existing Wi-Fi infrastructure makes installation easy. This “scan, peel, stick, and go” approach can save up to 25% of installation costs.

Once installed, EnOcean energy-harvesting devices draw power from their environment, eliminating the need for battery replacements. SmartStudio complements this by offering a digital representation of real estate, enabling businesses to easily assign and track sensor placements across multiple locations - while also monitoring device connectivity. “This plug-and-play approach reduces installation time, minimizes costs, and ensures a hassle-free rollout with minimal on-site disruptions”, explains Carsten Steffensen, Product Marketing Manager for Software Solutions at EnOcean.

Unlocking actionable insights with smart sensors.
SmartStudio leverages connected sensors to deliver real-time insights on space utilization, indoor air quality, and energy consumption. Businesses can use these insights to:

• Optimize office layouts and resource allocation for hybrid work strategies.
• Enhance workplace efficiency and reduce operational costs.
• Improve efficiency through better asset localization
• Improve air quality to support employee well-being and regulatory compliance (e.g., EPBD).
• Monitor energy consumption, track sustainability progress, and comply with ESG and ISO 50001 standards.

Partnering for the full solution.
The open APIs in SmartStudio enhance the integration of the EnOcean IoT ecosystem with existing workplace management platforms, HVAC systems, and data analytics tools. By leveraging industry-standard interfaces, the platform ensures secure and reliable data exchange. Flexible controls also empower users to easily manage data sharing according to their needs.

The integration capabilities within SmartStudio are also open to third-party application providers to partner with EnOcean. This allows software platforms to take advantage of the data coming from EnOcean IoT ecosystem devices.

“This provides companies with a scalable solution for seamlessly incorporating sensors and real-time data into their business operations,” emphasises Steffensen.

Using existing IT infrastructure.
The EnOcean integration with HPE Aruba Networking allows seamless communication between EnOcean IoT devices and network infrastructure from HPE Aruba Networking. Thus, businesses are able to manage IoT data using their current IT infrastructure. And they maintain full compliance with security standards, thanks to HPE Aruba Networking’s robust security features.

A smarter future for IoT adoption.
"With SmartStudio, we are making IoT adoption faster, easier, and more accessible than ever. Businesses no longer need to worry about complex installations or compatibility issues—our platform enables instant deployment and seamless integration with existing systems. This is a major step toward smarter, more sustainable workplaces,” explains Steffensen. By removing barriers to implementation, EnOcean enables businesses to harness the full potential of smart buildings and data-driven decision-making.

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@EnOcean  #Pauto #Energy  #IoT

Energy harvesting saves heating energy!

The Energy Harvester from ZF, installed in applications for windows and doors, contributes to energy efficiency and building security. These monitor if a window is open or closed and prevents, for example, the waste of heating energy. 

By RF technology, the current status of a window will be reported to the building technology and when the window is open, the heating or air-condition will turn down. If a window or door has not been closed, this information can also be checked on a central unit. Thus, the effort for the guard duty of big commercial buildings will be reduced.

By each actuation of the ZF Energy Harvester, sufficient energy for the transmission of a RF protocol is generated. The connected radio electronics transfers the status information to a receiver unit. So, window handle, window latch or door lock inform with every opening and closing about the change of status.

The completely battery-free and wireless technology from ZF is free of maintenance and flexible in use. It can be realized with different RF protocols such as Bluetooth®, EnOcean® or customer-specific RF protocols.

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@zfswitch_sensor #Automation #Energy #Building

Trends in energy management, office space optimization and wellbeing.

EnOcean has developed sustainable solutions for the global megatrends of energy management, office space optimization and wellbeing and has aligned its strategy for accelerated growth. Owners and tenants of houses, buildings, and industrial facilities can realize smarter and more sustainable working and living conditions and thus significantly reduce energy consumption and CO² emissions. As a pioneer and market leader in energy harvesting and sensor-to-cloud solutions for sustainable Internet of Things (IoT) applications, EnOcean sees significant growth opportunities, particularly in the retrofitting and energy optimization of existing buildings.

Alternative energy sources and IoT solutions to reduce energy consumption and CO² emissions.
The requirements for sustainable energy use are increasing worldwide due to climate change, new working and living environments, and legal regulations. "Against this backdrop, we have developed IoT-based solutions for the key global megatrends of energy management, office space optimization and wellbeing. With these, owners and tenants of houses, buildings and industrial facilities can use alternative energy sources, realize smarter and more sustainable working and living environments and ultimately significantly reduce energy consumption and CO² emissions," explains Raoul Wijgergangs, CEO of EnOcean. The most important keys to greater efficiency, productivity and environmental friendliness are energy harvesting from alternative energy sources in the environment and the smart use of sustainable IoT solutions. "With our energy harvesting technology, high-quality sensors, the cloud-based IoT connector, an end-to-end approach, and a large partner ecosystem, we have strategically developed our business model and aligned it with global megatrends. In doing so, we want to ensure the continued growth of EnOcean and make an important contribution to a future worth living for generations to come, taking into account economic, ecological and social aspects." 

Global megatrends: energy management, space optimization and wellbeing.
Owners and tenants of houses, buildings and industrial facilities around the world are facing the major challenge of reducing energy consumption and CO² emissions.

• Energy management: Regarding sustainable energy management, EnOcean ensures multi-layered energy optimization based on current data. Manufacturers of switches can thus drive intelligently controlled light and heating switch-offs to save energy in unused rooms, for example.
• Office space optimization: EnOcean also offers new concepts for optimized space utilization based on new work models such as desk sharing. This can ensure a flexible, healthy and comfortable working environment. It also optimizes energy costs, drives building automation, and aligns the office and building landscape more effectively and efficiently.
• Wellbeing: Automated adjustment of temperature, lighting, or even air conditions significantly improves wellbeing and productivity in working environments.

"Modern energy use through alternative and self-sufficient energy sources and sustainable IoT solutions are a win-win situation for companies and the environment. Our solutions not only open up value-adding options for owners and tenants, for example through predictive maintenance and condition-based servicing, but also reduce energy consumption and CO² emissions in particular. 20 million sensors sold have already saved 1.484.000 tons of CO²," emphasizes Wijgergangs.

Light + Building: Focus on sustainable solutions.
"With our solutions, we create sustainable added value for intelligent building automation in compliance with national and international legal regulations. Our wireless, battery-free and maintenance-free sensors for energy harvesting and our cloud-based IoT connector help to analyze the collected data and make informed decisions to optimize building performance," says Wijgergangs.

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@EnOcean @NapierPR #Pauto Environment

Energy harvesting high lights.

Enabling a new era in energy-efficient lighting control, EnOcean has introduced the 2nd generation Bluetooth® switch module PTM 216B. This revolutionary energy harvesting module builds upon the success of its predecessor, the groundbreaking PTM 215B—the world's first energy harvesting Bluetooth® switch module. Setting industry standards for mesh network lighting control solutions, the new PTM 216B signifies a leap forward in technological innovation.

With the new EnOcean PTM 216B module, customers can now address even more applications thanks to the use of the latest generation kinetic harvester ECO 260. The combination of the new harvester with the latest generation system design, allows for more than double the radio transmission power compared to its highly successful predecessor, the PTM 215B. This significantly increases the usable communication distance. This enhancement enables control of high-bay lighting, expanding the application areas to include warehouses and architectural projects with high ceilings. PTM 216B brings great flexibility in terms of installation locations and repositioning capabilities. In modern offices with adaptable layouts and flexible walls, the elimination of wiring significantly streamlines the installation process.

NFC technology for quick and easy integration.
EnOcean devices such as PTM 216B can be quickly configured using Near Field Communication (NFC) technology. NFC is a short-range wireless technology that enables communication between devices in close proximity, typically within a few centimeters. It allows two devices equipped with NFC capabilities to establish a connection by bringing them close together, triggering the exchange of data. A common use is for making contactless payments.

The integration of EnOcean devices into networks via NFC provides a simple, quick and reliable way of setting up lighting installations.
• Simple: no qualifications are required to set it up.
• Quick: optimized installation time.
• Right first-time: no need to revisit a site to correct any parameters.

Many different designs thanks to partner network.
Thanks to the extensive EnOcean partner and OEM network, energy-harvesting switches based on the PTM 216B and other EnOcean switch modules are available in a wide range of designs from multiple switch manufacturers around the world, all of which blend well into any environment. The unique combination of these features makes PTM 216B an ideal choice for lighting control and building automation use cases. Official switch OEM partners make use of the “Battery-free by EnOcean” brand to make sure it contains genuine technology from EnOcean for real maintenance-free operation in the field.

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@EnOcean @NapierPR #Pauto

Significant energy savings using harvesting wireless devices.

EnOcean is making a significant impact in the fight against climate change. Through its innovative energy harvesting wireless technology, EnOcean is saving over 1.4 million tons of CO₂ emissions annually, preventing this harmful greenhouse gas from entering the atmosphere. This achievement is made possible as EnOcean's technology is now connecting smart-building systems in more than one million premises worldwide.

In collaboration with SET Ventures, EnOcean has quantified the energy savings achieved by their devices, which result in an average reduction of approximately 15% in a building's energy consumption. Currently, EnOcean's products manage an impressive 221 million square meters of floorspace which equals around 74,000 football fields. As EnOcean continues to supply more sensors to the market, these annual savings are expected to grow even further.

"Reducing our energy demand is critical for transitioning to renewable sources and combating climate change. Buildings are responsible for 40% of global energy consumption, as reported by Forbes," emphasized Armin Anders, co-founder & VP Business Development at EnOcean. "Smart HVAC and power control are cost-effective measures that can significantly contribute to this cause. Products like ours, which allow us to eliminate unnecessary energy consumption, represent quick and affordable wins compared to extensive infrastructure investments."

EnOcean's wireless building-automation products operate on the principle of energy harvesting, drawing power from their surroundings, such as motion, light, and temperature differences. This eliminates the need for batteries and power cords. EnOcean supports various wireless standards, including Bluetooth, Zigbee, and the optimized EnOcean radio protocol. The product range includes kinetic switches, self-powered sensors, gateways, actuators, configuration tools, and the SmartServer IoT edge device. These products seamlessly integrate into existing Wi-Fi access points from Aruba Networks, simplifying installations without requiring complex cabling or additional gateways.

The products communicate with heating, air conditioning, and lighting, monitor occupancy and people flow, and allow settings to be automatically adjusted for optimum user convenience while saving energy. Because of their battery-free and maintenance-free nature, they eliminate the necessity for regular servicing and battery replacements, ensuring continuous, reliable performance and contributing significantly to reducing electronic waste and operational disruptions. Furthermore, their easy installation stems from the wireless, self-powered nature of the devices, which mitigates the need for complex cabling and power source setups, allowing for straightforward, eco-friendly integration into any building infrastructure using a “Peel & Stick” approach.

The significance of EnOcean's energy-efficient solutions is underscored by the impending Buildings Energy Act (Gebäudeenergiegesetz, GEG 2024), the new German legislation set to take effect on January 1, 2024. This legislation places significant emphasis on building automation in non-residential buildings as part of efforts to reduce CO₂ emissions from buildings. In alignment with the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), which aims to achieve carbon-neutral building operation by 2050 and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030 compared to 1990 levels, the GEG 2024 highlights the need for energy controls and self-regulating devices for room temperature control in buildings with over 290 kW of heating or cooling power.

EnOcean's innovative solutions are very well-suited to address this growing market demand for building automation solutions, especially in non-residential buildings. As the world moves towards carbon-neutral building operation, EnOcean's products are at the forefront of creating energy-efficient and sustainable smart buildings.

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@EnOcean @NapierPR #Pauto #ClimateChange

Sustaining IoT innovation.

A substantial investment from Innovation Industries, a leading deep tech VC fund in EnOcean has been announced. This strategic partnership not only provides EnOcean with the necessary capital to support its continued growth but also signifies a strong alignment of strategic goals between the two entities.

The investment from Innovation Industries underscores the starting point for EnOcean's additional organic and inorganic growth strategy, providing vital resources to accelerate the development of new sustainable IoT solutions and widen its market footprint. This infusion of capital follows on the heels of EnOcean’s first acquisition in late 2022.

From top: Raoul Wijgergangs
Chris Sonnenberg

“This investment marks a significant milestone for our company and exemplifies the strong alignment of our objectives and our strategy going forward. We believe that this strategic partnership is a testament to the strength of our vision and the exceptional potential we hold in the market,” said Raoul Wijgergangs, CEO of EnOcean (right - top). “We are excited to embark on this journey together and are confident that this step will pave the way for our continued growth and innovation. We are truly pleased with this development and look forward to the promising future it brings to all parties involved."

Chris Sonnenberg ( from Innovation Industries added: "Partnering with EnOcean in their pursuit of sustainable IoT solutions is a remarkable opportunity for Innovation Industries. We are excited to expand our investment portfolio into the vibrant German market, and joining forces with a company that holds a leadership position in the sustainable IoT sector is truly inspiring. The dedication EnOcean is showing to drive innovation in products, channel, and business model while prioritizing environmental sustainability aligns seamlessly with our own values. This investment not only signifies our confidence in EnOcean's capabilities but also our commitment to fostering technology-driven positive change. We eagerly anticipate the positive impact our partnership will bring to both the company and the IoT landscape as a whole."

With this positive strategic alignment based on a continued buy-and-build strategy, EnOcean envisions further acquisitions with separate capital raises that will complement its portfolio and enhance its capabilities. The strategic partnership with Innovation Industries provides a strong foundation for these future endeavors, with both entities committed to fostering growth and innovation.

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@EnOcean @NeeshamPR #Pauto #IIoT

Building security and safety.

The increasing demand for comfort, safety and energy efficiency in facility management is leading to rapidly progressing digitalisation in buildings. Considering that 90% of buildings are owned properties, wireless solutions are cost-efficient and ideal for retrofitting as they can be easily integrated in existing building automation systems.

For increased building security, SAG Smart Line mortice locks can prevent door motions (actuations of the latch or bolt). The wireless SAG Smart Line locks use an energy harvesting switch from ZF with the established EnOcean RF standard. The ZF energy harvesting switch generates the required energy for RF protocol transmission by mechanical actuation. As a wireless and batteryfree solution and due to the very small and compact size, these switches from ZF offer high flexibility to fulfill individual customer requirements. Hence, these switches are completely maintenance-free and a smart, energy-saving solution for building automation systems. Besides the EnOcean RF standard which is used by SAG Smart Line Door Locks, the ZF energy harvesting switch can also be applied with protocols like KNX-RF, Bluetooth or customer-specific solutions.

By replacing existing mortice locks in a building with SAG Smart Line door locks, doors can be quickly retrofitted at low cost during ongoing operation or integrated into the building automation system. Based on the transmitted RF protocol, information about the room usage can be generated to optimise resources like heating, air conditioning or light. Early warning alerts can also be triggered in case of break-in, fire or water damage which can be controlled by these sensors. In addition, public toilet facilities can display whether they are vacant/occupied, or alternatively track usage to allow preparation of cleaning scheduling.

@zfswitch_sensor  #Safety #Energy 

Energy harvesting light switch

Thanks to the success and interest that has been received from the KNX-RF energy harvesting light switch module from ZF, a collaboration is starting with light switch manufacturer Retrotouch.

Both partners are members of the KNX Association and are excited about the potential for the home automation industry, with the possibilities of this battery-free, maintenance-free and wireless switch.

The ZF KNX-RF energy harvesting switch is suitable for adding into a new bespoke system. It is also ideal for retrofitting into an already existing twisted-pair KNX system using ZF mediacouplers available from Retrotouch. Compatible with KNX-RF 2.0 Ready S-Mode it is configurable with ETS software (from version 5 onwards). The switch can be customized with programming to operate in a customer’s desired room and function for both lighting and window shutters.

Retrotouch’s lighting solutions are a stylish and affordable range which allow any homeowner to purchase and install easily. Home-automation should not be reserved for high-end custom renovations, homeowners who are looking to replace existing systems one room at a time are now able to join this industry too.

@zfswitch_sensor @MYRETROTOUCH #Energy #Pauto

Energy-saving and edge computing strengthened.

EnOcean is acquiring the assets of the edge computing solutions business from the Renesas Electronics Corporation. The deal includes the transition of personnel as well as hardware and software products and was closed on the first day of October.

Raoul Wijgergangs

Commenting on the acquisition, EnOcean CEO Raoul Wijgergangs said: “EnOcean has always been very keen on delivering innovative and sustainable solutions that have a real benefit for companies by creating energy-efficient, flexible, and overall better buildings. This acquisition brings us, our partners, and our customers one step closer to a carbon-neutral future. 

Rising energy costs and a growing demand for sustainable solutions provide tremendous opportunities for EnOcean. EnOcean’s solutions are helping customers to reduce energy consumption and their carbon footprint in a large number of installations. EnOcean provides a  combination of energy-harvesting sensors and cloud-based software that enables a deep understanding of building operation and utilization. Integration of the edge computing solution will additionally provide access to data from the existing building infrastructure such as heating, cooling, and lighting systems. These insights will not only allow for a reduced carbon footprint and lower energy bills but will also enable companies to be much more efficient in the use of their assets and real estate.

CEO Raoul Wijgergangs continued: “Our combined solution, including the SmartServer™ IoT and IoT Access Protocol (IAP) software, enables customers to leverage existing data that is already being generated in their buildings, machines, or other devices for a wide range of applications. This data can be augmented by additional energy harvesting and traditional sensors as needed to provide a comprehensive view. The solution enables understanding, control, interaction, and optimization of buildings and devices. Insights gained from sensor data can be applied directly to drive actions to improve efficiency. Furthermore, the talented team has a wealth of experience in software that bridges the gap between the existing HVAC and lighting systems in buildings and the cloud in an open and standardized way. We also expect that our go-to-market channels will be complementary, and that our combined businesses will be better together.”

Apurba Pradhan, Business Unit Director Industrial Edge Computing at Renesas, added: “I see tremendous opportunities in merging the channels of our two companies and I’m delighted that we’re joining a company that’s as dedicated to our market as we are. Together, we’re building on our technologies to provide next-generation solutions for smart buildings that focus on sustainability, waste reduction, and occupant experience. We’re excited about this shared journey on which we provide a seamless solution that paves the way for sustainable, maintenance-free, and cost-effective IoT solutions, and I’m certain that we’ll see very good growth opportunities for the two companies together.”

@EnOcean @NeeshamPR @RenesasGlobal #PAuto 

Energy harvesting switch module.

The latest addition to ZF’s product portfolio their new batteryfree and wireless switch module with ZF’s patented technology uses the EnOcean® RF standard, specifically designed for Energy Harvesting solutions.

Their light switch module can be fully integrated into existing EnOcean® wireless systems. The EnOcean® radio protocol is designed for a frequency band of 868MHz (EU, Asia) and 915MHz (USA). Within buildings, low frequencies are particularly suitable for penetrating walls or ceilings and ensure reliable radio transmission. In addition, the radio range is up to 30 meters inside the building.

The new switch module works self-sufficiently and therefore eliminates the requirement of batteries and cables. The energy to send the RF protocol is generated by the actuation of a compact inductive generator (20.1 x 7.3 x 14.3 mm).

The wireless light switch modules from ZF are compatible with standard frames available on the market and can also be combined with customer-specific control and design panels. For example, connected doors and windows can send RF signals to monitor the open/closed status. Other potential applications are: smart industrial switches or stop pushbutton switches for buses.

@zfswitch_sensor #Automation 

Harvesting the power of data.

Charles Chen, Solution Architect, Moxa, takes a closer look at how IIoT technology can help VPPs build a strong, everlasting data stream foundation.

With the maturation of renewable-energy harvesting technologies, green energy is gradually becoming a viable alternative to conventional, environment-unfriendly power sources. For all its benefits, this new reliance on green energy puts stress on grid stability. Since grids rely heavily on balancing power supply and demand, the unpredictability of green energy brings about several challenges. Technology that allows a grid to respond quickly to power fluctuations is crucial to ensure a more resilient grid. This is where the Virtual Power Plant (VPP) enters the picture.

VPPs are networks of decentralized power generating sources, flexible power consumers, and storage systems (Pic MOXA)

VPPs crowdsource energy from a variety of resources. Ranging from renewable energy power plants, rooftop solar panels, energy storage batteries, to electric vehicles, VPPs harvest energy from anywhere and anyone. Harvesting and dispatching power successfully from both conventional and unconventional sources requires live monitoring. As an example, imagine a world where electric vehicles are the main source of commuting. During power demand peaks, VPPs could prompt connected vehicles at charging centers to divert power back to the grid to solve urgent needs. Inversely, if an excess of renewable energy is produced, the power can be stored in the vehicles.

By matching supply with demand VPPs also play a crucial part in reducing wasted energy. The most common instance of energy waste is discarding excess renewable energy generated for a local area. In a VPP setting, this can be avoided. Let's say the supply of wind-powered energy exceeds the demand of the grid for a particular area. In this case power usage can be stimulated by reducing the price through the time-price mechanism, solving the problem.

VPPs may hold the key to our future energy needs. Even so, before VPPs can become a full-fledged reality, a few kinks need to be ironed out. To achieve grid resilience, for instance, a VPP must be able to answer questions such as: "How much renewable energy will be integrated into the grid?", "How much energy would the user need?", or "How many electric vehicles are currently charging?". This not as simple as installing an API in your smartphone. To receive data, field devices may have to be installed next to a desert's solar power plant subject to extreme heat, or adjacent to an oceanside wind turbine facing corrosive salty winds, or even installed within a substation itself with high, signal-confusing, electromagnetic waves. Also, collecting the data requires a professional workforce to integrate various industrial designs and protocols — a difficult task.

The solution is the IIoT. Let’s take a closer look at how IIoT technology can help VPPs build a strong, everlasting data stream foundation.

Demystifying Power Distribution Networks.
To help distribution system operators (DSO) get the most out of a power grid, real-time knowledge of load changes is critical. As a German DSO recently found out, this can be monumental task. Two years ago, the German DSO was unable to see electricity consumption data for one of its low-voltage grids. The DSO turned to IIoT technology to achieve more transparency regarding the substation’s power data. The goal was to turn 21 categories of measured data — such as voltage, current, frequency, and active/reactive power — collected from the feeders every minute into information that operators could easily view and understand. Such information can maximize the existing power distribution system’s ability to deliver more power to the 2.3 million households it serves.

Trouble was that the feeders from substations not only vary in quantity but also come in different shapes and sizes while also being dispersed in several locations. On top of that, to prevent the installers from accidentally touching other equipment during routine entries and exits, substations are strictly controlled. This posed two new challenges: First, how to quickly install IIoT technology with less labor? Second, how to efficiently patch these IIoT devices in different substations to ensure safety?

In this case, the system integrator proposed an end-to-end solution that could quickly and securely deploy IIoT devices without changing the design of the substation. This system allowed settings to be stored and managed remotely on a cloud device management platform. Settings can also be automatically imported into a field device after passing the security certifications, eliminating the need for tedious activation steps. In addition to resolving the issue with personnel expertise and resource scheduling, this solution makes remote patches available. This powerful system design accelerates the speed of grid upgrades and helps promote the “Internet of Energy.” The Power to Dispatch: Real-time Control.

Historically, renewable energy generation was regarded as unstable and unpredictable. For it to be sustainable, the supply and demand needs be balanced. To achieve an optimal supply-demand balance, under certain national grid codes, renewable power plants need to complete the adjustment of grid-connected power within 150 milliseconds. Since this window of exchange is so small, stable and reliable real-time data collection is imperative. Stable data transmission is arduous due to the data-hosting equipment often being distributed in vast, mainly outdoors, terminal sites where severe weather, salt erosion, or electromagnetic interferences are the norm. To prevent data loss and ensure the smooth transmission of data in real time, high-end network redundancy technology is in place. When one network is unavailable, data can be transmitted via the backup, ensuring an uninterrupted data stream, creating a precise, 24-hour nonstop, real-time monitoring and control system.

A Win-Win for Users and Operators.
Data can also be found in the advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) that goes deep into homes and buildings. AMI makes electricity usage information fully transparent. Consumers can track their own electricity consumption down to the second through their cellphones, while grid operators can shorten repair time by using AMI to find abnormalities in real time without waiting for user notifications. After obtaining real-time user data, the "waveform" distribution of each household's electricity consumption can be calculated to better understand or even predict the consumption during each timespan. This information helps users avoid waste by turning off the air conditioner in a vacant space or even help providers match prices for specific time slots. Achieving this requires electricity consumption data to be accurately returned to the operator's system. While household meters are not installed in environments as harsh as their outdoor counterparts, the layout of each deployment field is usually complex and diverse with the complications of human influence. Any tiny bit of carelessness could potentially affect the stability of communication. Operators could receive the wrong electricity usage information and miscalculate the electricity consumption. To avoid information loss, a store-and-forward technology is used when communication is down. The meter data can be stored first and sent out after the communication is restored to protect the rights of both users and operators.

VPPs allow consumers to also become producers, selling electricity to the grid (pic MOXA)

Trading Virtual Power.
When information becomes more transparent and the prices of renewable energy technologies become more affordable, users can also become producers, in other words, selling electricity to the grid. This shift makes supply-demand scheduling even more flexible. Achieving this level of flexibility involves a secure and decentralized network. For some operators the answer is the combining of virtual power plants with blockchain. Through blockchain’s smart transaction contract, safe and smooth purchase and the transfer of energy can by ensured due to blockchain’s decentralized, transparent, and tamper-proof nature. This design gives consumers the freedom to choose from cheaper, sometimes unconventional sources, such as their neighbors, and skip the middle aggregators.

Through IIoT technologies, power grids are being transformed from experience-based management to data-driven management. Multiple platforms, combined with participation of the general population, will make the grid more powerful with power utilization rates increasing, power waste being reduced, and a world with high energy efficiency can truly be realized.

@MoxaInc @OConnellPR #Power #PAuto #IIoT

Pushbutton module ensures efficient and economic switching.

Big topics of discussion within the lighting sector include sustainability, energy efficiency, low cost systems, connectivity and convenience through flexibility. One solution to address these issues, is the wireless and battery-free ZF RF pushbutton module.

For the connection between lighting components and pushbuttons in buildings, cables are the established solution. This variant seems to be cheap and simple to install at first. Unfortunately, the initial low maintenance can quickly turn into an expensive undertaking. Installing cables creates inflexibility. As soon as it comes to modifying buildings updating cables between lights, actuators or sensors, it involves a huge effort and cost. Renovations require planning, knocking down walls, laying new wires and returning the building to its previous state.

A sustainable alternative based on RF and completely free of batteries and wires is available from ZF. This concept eliminates the disadvantages of wired and battery powered systems. A tiny and compact generator (20.1 x 7.3 x 14.3 mm) produces enough energy by pressing the button by means of induction, so that it can reliably transmit RF commands to a paired receiver. As a wireless solution it guarantees flexibility and the possibility to retrofit easily according to individual requirements. As a battery-free solution and with a lifetime of 1,000,000 switching cycles, maintenance and disposal requirements of battery replacements can be avoided.

The RF light switch module from ZF is the only one which is directly compatible with the RF standard KNX-RF and it supports the RF standard EnOcean3.0 too. In cooperation with onsemi, ZF has published a reference design for an Energy Harvesting Bluetooth5.0® Low Energy switch and a first demo light switch module. It is compatible with standard frames and can also be combined with customer-specific control and design panels.

@zfswitch_sensor #Domestic #Automation

New CEO appointed at energy harvesting pioneer.

After 20 successful years, the last five of them as Managing Director of EnOcean, co-founder Andreas Schneider has left the company at his own request on 31 July 2021 to take on new entrepreneurial challenges. Raoul Wijgergangs succeeds him as EnOcean’s new CEO. He has over 20 years of experience in the IoT industry and is also a co-founder of the Z-Wave Alliance.

"I would like to personally thank Andreas Schneider for his constant commitment and tireless dedication to the company and every single employee," said Dr. Peter Klein, CFO. "Under his leadership EnOcean has been able to expand and consolidate its market position even further. The fact that we as a company have successfully come through the Corona crisis confirms this. The entire EnOcean team and I wish him all the best for the future. At the same time, I am looking forward to the upcoming collaboration with Raoul Wijgergangs as the new CEO and I am sure that together we will build on the outstanding work of Andreas Schneider."

The new CEO Raoul Wijgergangs said "I am honoured that the Management Board puts so much trust in me as the new Managing Director, and I am very much looking forward to this new professional chapter. As the world leader in sustainable IoT, EnOcean will certainly be even more in demand in the coming months and years. With that in mind I see great opportunities not only in the commercial real estate but also in the industrial IoT. What’s more, the company’s focus on interoperability with products supporting the EnOcean radio standard, Bluetooth Low Energy and Zigbee Green Power makes it a real IoT power house. I thank Andreas Schneider for his successful work over the last years, without him EnOcean would certainly not be where the company is today. And of course I’m very much looking forward to be working with such an innovative team with a strong expertise and great technical know-how."

Before joining EnOcean, Wijgergangs was CEO at Disruptive Technologies in Oslo and worked as Vice President/General Manager at Silicon Labs as well as Vice President/General Manager of the Z-Wave business unit at Sigma Designs in Copenhagen, to name but a few positions. He studied Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at H.T.S.’s-Hertogenbosch, Netherlands, and completed his MBA at the Twente School of Management, University of Twente, Netherlands.

@EnOcean @NeeshamPR #PAuto #Energy

Stop the bus.

Thanks to the wireless and battery-free switch technology from ZF, there are various possible application fields to increase connectivity, flexibility, and convenience. Bus stop buttons are another smart application integrating the inductive RF generator module. The target is to avoid cabling (up to 100m) and expensive maintenance work caused by cable breaks in buses. The energy harvesting switch guarantees design freedom and reduces maintenance work to a minimum as it has a lifetime of over 1,000,000 switching cycles.

The energy harvesting switch can be integrated directly into the plastic housing of the stop request buttons in buses. The compact design (20.1 x 7.3 x 14.3 mm) makes it easy to integrate. In addition, the ZF radio switch generates a voltage pulse by mechanical actuation as it relies on the inductive principle. Therefore, RF commands can be reliably sent via commercially available radio protocols such as EnOcean3.0 at a frequency band of 868MHz. In this case there is no risk of RF interference with Bluetooth devices which operate at a 2.4 GHz frequency range. Altogether, the radio switch is completely free of batteries or cabling, allows a reliable RF transmission and offers a high degree of flexibility when it comes to mounting in buses.

Each RF switch has a unique ID and can be programmed individually. This means that each stop request button can be assigned to a specific command group, such as opening doors at the front, back, or initiating measures for wheelchair users. The buttons are paired to the central receiver unit, which is again connected to the electrical bus system. Depending on the received command, the receiver triggers a visual or acoustic signal to give the bus driver appropriate instructions.

@zfswitch_sensor #Transportation #Energyharvesting

Smart industrial switches.

The partnership between Schneider Electric and ZF Friedrichshafen AG leads to a new level of smart industrial switches. With the help of the compact generator from ZF, Schneider Electric has released the new industrial Harmony ZBRT wireless and battery-less interface. This self-powered transmitter is fully modular and compatible with industry top-class Harmony XB4 and XB5 control units. It will support industrial enterprises to improve their profitability in several ways.

Flexibility is an essential feature for industrial enterprises. Logistical changes are often required in these environments, which can lead to an inevitable upgrade of equipment and control systems. Using a wireless and battery-free pushbutton is the simplest and quickest way to modify existing control units.

New functions can be added to the system by simply adding an energy harvesting pushbutton. Each RF switch has a unique ID and can be associated to a specific function or machine. This retrofit option saves time and costs in wiring, programming, and it avoids maintenance work for changing batteries. As the Harmony ZBRT interface is compatible with standard electrical contacts, it can be set up very quickly. A duplication of function is also possible to control additional equipment with an existing pushbutton. While attaching the self-powered pushbutton on an existing switch, there is the possibility to initiate two associated processes with one push, for example. The advantage: No change for the existing wiring and no new wiring is required.

The ZF energy harvesting switch can be integrated directly into the plastic housing of the Harmony ZBRT, due to its very compact design (20.1 x 7.3 x 14.3 mm). The ZF radio switch generates a voltage pulse by mechanical actuation, as it relies on the inductive principle and without any additional power source. Therefore, RF commands can be reliably sent via commercially available radio protocols such as Zigbee Green Power at 2.4 GHz (IEEE 802.15.4), which is used by the smart Harmony system of Schneider Electric.

@zfswitch_sensor @SchneiderElec #PAuto

EMC Filter for regeneration.

Schaffner has introduced the new FN3840 for use in Active Infeed Converter (AIC) or Active Front End (AFE) applications where energy is fed back to the power grid.

This process reduces energy costs in larger factories or can be used to reduce losses and excess heat in converters. When the semiconductors of the converters are switching directly towards the mains power network, they create a high voltage and current ripple. The inclusion of an LCL-filter such as the recently launched FN6840 can further reduce this effect and improve power quality.

FN3840 series of filters provide state-of-the-art EMI attenuation based on an innovative filter topology and help to ensure compliance with Class C2 or even C1 limits. Applications include regenerative drives in combination with LCL filters, active infeed converter (AIC), active front end (AFE) variable frequency drives (VFD), three-phase variable speed drives (VSD) and power drive systems (PDS), renewable energy, machine tool and machinery equipment, process automation equipment.

In systems where compliance to EMC regulations at frequencies above 150kHz need to be considered not every EMC-filter can be connected in-line with an LCL-filter. The inductive components of an LCL-filter can resonate with the capacitors of the EMC-filter and vice versa. To overcome those effects and to avoid damage of the drive, a careful design of the EMC-filter circuit is mandatory. The new Schaffner FN3840 has been fully tested and may be combined with a Schaffner FN6840 LCL-filter in an AIC/AFE application.

The FN3840 is fitted with an onboard temperature monitor to provide protection from overheating. The switch will open at the critical temperatures of 180°C, or 150°C for busbar versions. This provides an extra safety layer for machine builders. In the event of an open temperature switch the Active Infeed Converter can react and reduce or switch off power.

The new Schaffner FN3840 is supplied in a slim book-style shape allowing convenient and space-saving installation next to inverters, converters or motor drives. Connection is via solid safety connector blocks and versions are available with low leakage current.

The new FN3840 filters offer very high saturation performance combined with high EMI performance fulfilling the requirements in IEC/EN 61800-5-1 for electric strength, clearance and creepage, IEC/EN 60204-1 for insulation resistance, electric strength, clearance and creepage, and the requirements in IEC/EN 62477-1.

@proactivefleet #Schaffner #Pauto #Energy

Energy harvesting to benefit from membership.

The topic of sustainability is a high priority within the ZF Group. To support ZF’s energy harvesting product portfolio further, investment has been made to join the EnOcean Alliance. This is a strategic milestone in order to offer battery-free and wireless radio technology with the EnOcean3.0 radio standard in the near future.

The EnOcean Alliance was founded in 2008 and, as a non-profit company, plays a leading role in the development of maintenance-free and compatible wireless solutions for Smart Home and Smart Buildings. The products are based on the EnOcean RF standard (ISO / IEC 14543-3-10 / 11), which is designed specifically for energy harvesting solutions. With over 400 renowned members, wireless sensors with low energy consumption and energy harvesting solutions are developed and marketed. The advantages are obvious: Simple installation without laying cables, energy and CO2 savings, no maintenance and low system costs.

As a member of the EnOcean Alliance, ZF plans to expand its energy harvesting product portfolio with wireless solutions that are compatible with the EnOcean3.0 wireless standard.

@zfswitch_sensor @EnOceanAlliance #Wireless #BAC #Standards

Solar cells power source.

A partnership between Anglia Components and Anysolar has been announced. They will offer a new PCB-mounted photovoltaic solar cell line for customers allowing designs to be powered from light energy harvested from the environment instead of or alongside a battery or mains source. The Anysolar line is a new product range for Anglia, and includes small efficient solar cells, also referred to as Solar BITs, and solar modules.

Commenting on the partnership, David Pearson, Technical Director at Anglia said, “Anglia is delighted to partner with Anysolar for this new product range which complements many of our established lines, such as low power MCU’s and sensors. Anysolar provides a viable alternative power source for many of our customers applications such as remote IoT sensor nodes.”

The Anysolar range includes devices which can be reflow soldered onto PCB’s as well as parts compatible with traditional hand soldering processes. Based on monocrystalline silicon free from impurities, the Anysolar cells do not degrade over time like some other solar technologies. This allows the solar cells to provide stable energy-conversion efficiency over the life of the product.

KY Choi, President of Anysolar, added, “We are delighted to partner with a distributor that is so well-respected in the UK and Ireland industry. We really value our relationships with our customers and look for partners that share that value. Our solar modules offer Anglia customers an environmentally friendly new power source for their designs.”

Anglia has invested in a profile of all the most popular sizes and formats in the latest highly efficient Gen 3 solar cells and modules which are available via Anglia Live and they are also able support customers with samples to support design activity.

@angliaComponent #PAuto #Solar

Energy harvesting anniversary.

EnOcean is celebrating 20 years of leadership in energy harvesting technology. The company launched its first battery-free, wireless switch based on a kinetic energy harvesting module in 2001. Since then, EnOcean has constantly expanded its portfolio of kinetically powered modules. First introduced 20 years ago, the PTM (Push Button Transceiver) modules have established themselves as the international industry standard and are at the heart of every self-powered radio-based switch. The modules combine innovation, know-how and pioneering spirit and thus support EnOcean's role as market leader in this field.

"I’m proud that EnOcean absolutely lives up to its status as pioneer and innovator of energy harvesting. Over 20 years our spirit of innovation has proved its worth and remains undimmed today. We see that through our activities the market is growing and energy harvesting is taking on an increasingly important role. With the PTM module we have set a standard that is second to none," says Andreas Schneider, CEO EnOcean. 

In spring 2001, EnOcean launched wireless switches that gain their energy from the press of a button at electrical engineering trade fairs in Germany. These switches quickly took on a pioneering role worldwide. Equipped with piezo-based energy converters, a module concept was developed that can be integrated into global switch designs. Just as an RJ45 plug grew from being a telephone socket to a worldwide standard for LAN cabling and today practically forms the backbone for the internet, the first fully functional modules based on a piezo element have established themselves over time as the worldwide PTM radio module standard with an electrodynamic energy converter. Thanks to EnOcean’s pioneering work over 20 years, several million wireless switches have now been installed, delivering a wireless telegram at the press of a switch – no batteries or cables are required. EnOcean modules with the original PTM form factor today are the industry standard. Already at the original design stage and with every innovation, EnOcean is guided by the needs of switch manufacturers from all over the world and incorporates their know-how into the further development of the modules.

 

The conscious decision to offer a flexible module paved the way for worldwide acceptance among switch manufacturers, installers and end users. Keeping the switch insert separate and placing the rockers on top provides maximum flexibility for switch designs and applications. Advanced features such as a Near Field Communication (NFC) interface allow installers to perform on-demand installation directly on site, quickly and securely.

 

But the company has not only developed further in terms of product technology. After starting with manual production, the modules are now manufactured on fully automated production lines with consistently high quality. The company continuously improves the products and incorporates feedback from its customers and users into innovative products such as solar-powered IoT wireless sensor modules in the identical original PTM form factor.

 

The switch modules from EnOcean not only support the radio standard of the same name managed by the EnOcean Alliance (ISO / IEC 14543-3-10 / 11) in the frequencies 868 MHz, 902 MHz and 928 MHz, but also Bluetooth® and Zigbee in the frequency of 2.4 GHz. The EnOcean wireless standard is ideally suited for building automation, smart homes and IoT applications due to its high reliability and a radio range of up to 30 metres. By supporting three leading standards, the company presents a constantly growing portfolio with self-powered radio modules for every use case.

 

Helped by partners

EnOcean has a global presence and has been able to constantly expand its cooperation with international switch manufacturers. Starting with Peha/Honeywell as the first switch partner, EnOcean now works with over 50 switch manufacturers such as Busch-Jaeger, Eltako, Feller, GIRA, Jung, Niko, NodOn, Vimar and many more. The company has thus proven itself to be a reliable partner for the industry. Thanks to the constantly growing partner network, EnOcean is able to meet the most diverse requirements in design, form and colour around the globe.

 

Expansion & development for customer needs

The PTM product family is constantly being expanded and adapted to the needs of customers. In addition to the possibility of encrypting the radio signals, NFC for configuring the module on site via the EnOcean NFC app is being successively introduced for all product variants. Through partnerships with Aruba and Cisco, the pushbuttons can be used as control elements for light, shutter and ventilation control, and can easily be integrated into IoT cloud solutions with intelligent data pre-processing without major infrastructure investments. And to round off the portfolio for standard applications such as the familiar two-way circuit for lighting, EnOcean is working on a module that takes up the concept of the first demonstrator from 2001 again: throwing the rocker turns on the light, without batteries and without cables.

@EnOcean @NeeshamPR #PAuto #Energy

Is that a draught?

Is the window open or closed? For smart homes this is a simple question but when it comes to energy efficiency and safety, it is a critical one. Thanks to the battery-free and wireless RF technology from ZF this question can be answered reliably.

With an integrated energy harvesting switch, there is the possibility to record each locking and unlocking actuation of a window. A leading company in the window system industry has revolutionized the connectivity between windows and smart home control systems with an innovative concept.

The window specialist Schüco International KG based in Germany has designed a solution for integrating the ZF RF switch in a locking latch, the so called "SensTrack wireless". This RF locking latch is attached to the window frame. When opening or closing the window, the fitting will be moved. This leads to the extension and retraction of the locking roller which actuates the ZF radio switch in the locking latch. The mechanical activation is enough to generate a small voltage based on induction which leads to the transmission of several telegrams of the EnOcean3.0 protocol. The signal is processed in a smart home control unit which then triggers customised functions such as climate control. In large buildings this can be especially helpful to monitor the window state and therefore save on energy costs.

The concept benefits from the compact design with high energy output of the ZF energy harvesting switch. With its size of 20.1 x 7.3 x 14.3 mm, it is ideal for applications with limited space requirements. In addition, due to its durable use with a lifetime of one million switching cycles, there is no maintenance work required to frequently change the components within the window frame.

The RF Switch is battery-free and the wireless technology provides flexibility in use. It can be utilized with different RF protocols - BLE5.0, EnOcean3.0 or ZigBee. The system can also be implemented for diverse applications in the smart home, building and industrial automation sectors, for applications such as lighting, shutters, and doors. With the help of these ZF products, comfort, safety and energy efficiency can be increased and improved in a smart way.

@zfswitch_sensor #Smart #Pauto #BAS