Over the last few years, we have developed and implemented a data collection and actuation framework that provides real-time visibility into building data for field studies or building operation. We combine WiFi and Ethernet based embedded devices with IPv6 wireless mesh network technology to create a reliable, low-cost system. This system is connected to the Internet via a cellular data connection or an existing Internet connection, and data are redundantly stored at LBNL and in the cloud with local data logging at the site to protect from Internet connection interruptions. I will present the overall framework, case study deployments, actual costs for use in a field study, and conclude by showing the flexibility of the system for future use.

Steven Lanzisera, Ph.D. is a Research Scientist in EETD where he studies the development and use of new sensor, actuator, network, and data management technologies for energy use related applications. Recent projects include a residential hot water field study, enabling demand response on second level time scales, and developing new water, gas, and electricity measurement technologies.