Smart buildings

Automated buildings have been around since the 1960s and have increased in complexity since then. These buildings include such technology as optimisation and compensation of heating systems, where the control system looks at both external and internal temperatures over 24 hours before deciding on switch-on times. Maybe lighting that turns itself on when it gets dark is a simple automation to achieve, as are doors that open when someone approaches - but both have been around since before the 1970s. Fire alarm systems that monitor their condition and can track the path of a fire from its source have been around since the 1980s. There is an argument among those in the built environment as to whether the building intelligence or the intelligence of the occupants is of the greater importance. Most believe that it is a combination of intelligent automation that is backed up by educated users and visible prompts.