Control system for The Crystal features KNX
KNX intelligent building controls play an integral role in the efficient operation of The Crystal in London, the sustainable-cities initiative by Siemens. As an open system, KNX sits alongside and operates seamlessly with other protocols in the building-management system, including BACnet and Modbus. KNX can also be linked to any manufacturers’ building control system.
At The Crystal, KNX provides control of HVAC applications throughout the building, including air-handling units, fans, room controls, windows and roof vents. It also provides demand-controlled lighting levels for individual rooms using passive infra-red controllers, as well as controlled blinds through wall-mounted controllers. There is an interface to the audio-visual system.
This £30 million building has an area of over 6300 m2 and is a conference centre, urban dialogue platform, and technology and innovation centre. It uses solar power, ground-source heat pumps and LED lighting. No fossil fuels are used. Passive design elements include a high-performance facade system. Total electrical consumption is 1467 MWh.
Andy Davis of KNX UK says, ‘KNX was the ideal choice for The Crystal as it allowed multiple disciplines to be easily linked, reducing installation costs and ensuring interoperability. KNX also ensured the building was future proofed, as its flexibility ensures changes can easily be applied as the building changes and adopts new technologies.’
Other KNX installations include The British Library, MediaCityUK, Heathrow Terminal 5, ITV Studios and many others.
