Technology : IoT & A.I. News
Finning urges industrial OEMs to up engine efficiency with connectivity tech

Finning urges industrial OEMs to up engine efficiency with connectivity tech

Industrial engine supply and service specialist Finning UK & Ireland is highlighting the important efficiency benefits – such as increased availability and reduced risk – of the Cat® Remote Fleet Vision (RFV) performance monitoring platform by introducing a new entry level pricing structure for those looking to trial the technology. Offering 24-7 insight

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WINT saves 652 million gallons of water, prevents 900 incidents in 2023

WINT saves 652 million gallons of water, prevents 900 incidents in 2023

Provider of powerful AI-based water management systems elevates expectations entering 2024 As organizations around the world face rising costs related to water damage and increased focus on water sustainability, WINT Water Intelligence is building on its success in 2023 to continue solving these challenges for insurance, construction, facilities, and property

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University of Exeter research to reveal impact of IoT on health and wellbeing for social housing tenants

University of Exeter research unveils impact of IoT in social housing

Social return on investment project uncovers the value of IoT sensors to social housing tenant’s health and wellbeing. The University of Exeter has partnered with Aico|HomeLINK and housing industry partners, UK Housing Associations’ Charitable Trust (HACT) and Coastline Housing, for a first-of-its-kind guide and toolkit to realise the social value of Internet of Things (IoT)

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The rise of Smart Technology - why 2024 is the year to implement change

The rise of Smart Technology – why 2024 is the year to implement change

As the UK Government’s deadline for the digital transformation looms, industries across the board are diversifying strategies, internal and external approaches and implementation of services to ensure cutting edge digital technology is embedded to drive business efficiencies and meet new industry standards.  Rapid change and adoption of digitisation is paramount

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New collision prediction system launched by Brigade Electronics

New collision prediction system launched by Brigade Electronics

Brigade Electronics has launched Radar Predict – its latest innovative side Blind Spot Information System (BSIS) collision prediction safety technology specifically designed to protect cyclists from incidents with HGVs. Even before its launch, this product was already receiving positive feedback during customer trials and has earned expert recognition, being honoured

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Construction SMEs undecided about impact of artificial intelligence

Despite the significant rise in the profile of artificial intelligence (AI), the UK’s Construction SMEs are largely undecided about the impact it will have on their business, sector and jobs. The findings are taken from the latest independent research* from Close Brothers Asset Finance and Leasing. Nearly six in 10

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University prioritises student safety and wellbeing by upgrading to IoT alarm systems within student accommodation

University prioritises student safety and wellbeing by upgrading to IoT alarm systems within student accommodation

Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU) has upgraded its student accommodation alarm systems via the implementation of IoT connected smart home sensors from Aico. The university offers guaranteed accommodation, to all students during their first year. Following the most recent British Standard revision for the planning, design, installation, commissioning and maintenance

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20,000 People Make the Switch to E-Communications

20,000 People Make the Switch to E-Communications

Leading property management company, Rendall & Rittner, is proud to announce that an impressive 20,000 of its residents have signed up for its e-communications platform. This achievement reflects Rendall & Rittner’s firm commitment to creating sustainable communities for people to live, work and play in. Having initially been recognised for

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Sustainability, the hidden key of Web Summit 2023

Sustainability, the hidden key of Web Summit 2023

Although Artificial Intelligence, Regulation and Access to Capital are the main subjects of the international meeting, sustainability plays a leading role in the production of stands, particularly the one produced by Feeders, which is striving to be more and more eco-friendly The Web Summit technology event is already underway in

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Latest Issue
Issue 322 : Nov 2024

Commercial : IoT & A.I. News

Finning urges industrial OEMs to up engine efficiency with connectivity tech

Finning urges industrial OEMs to up engine efficiency with connectivity tech

Industrial engine supply and service specialist Finning UK & Ireland is highlighting the important efficiency benefits – such as increased availability and reduced risk – of the Cat® Remote Fleet Vision (RFV) performance monitoring platform by introducing a new entry level pricing structure for those looking to trial the technology. Offering 24-7 insight into asset performance, the Cat RFV platform gathers a wide range of data points from within the engine and connects these to a single remote platform for analysis – customised to individual business needs. The Cat RFV can also be connected to datapoints across the piece of equipment the engine is installed in, allowing owners to build a full picture of performance and decide how uptime can be optimised. Now Finning has made access to this technology even easier with low-cost entry level pricing. Matt Bryan, Product Support Lead – Industrial at Finning, explains: “The RFV platform is proven to offer important performance benefits for Caterpillar customers around the world. Industrial customers can benefit from an unparalleled level of visibility into how their engine is running, allowing them to make timely decisions on performance adjustments, as well as diagnose faults and share error codes with Finning to facilitate quick, first-time fix maintenance. “Alongside this fantastic depth of engine data and insight, the flexibility of the system allows it to be used to monitor key performance indicators across an entire piece of equipment – from a water pump to a rock crusher and all points in between. This means owners have just one consolidated platform for monitoring their assets.” Aggregate Processing and Recycling Limited (Agg-Pro), one of the UK’s largest suppliers of crushing, screening, washing and recycling equipment, has recently benefitted from fitting Cat RFV equipment to all engines that pass through its workshop in Tamworth. The installation of PL542 remote monitoring systems on various Cat engines, from C4.4 to C9.3, in the company’s crushing and screening units enables monitoring of engine performance, run hours, and load factors. This capability replaces the previous methods of estimating, contacting customers, or dispatching engineers for data collection. Tony Gadsby, Service Manager at Agg-Pro, expressed his delight at the benefits realised: “Having an accurate picture of engine performance and run hours makes a big difference to optimising the reliability and uptime of our operation. Whilst previously this has been difficult to obtain, the support from Finning in supplying the Cat RFV platform has made it a reality – and given us a ready-made way of offering something that our competitors can’t. “Alongside being able to give our customers better advice on engine performance, it is now possible to remotely troubleshoot issues to further minimise downtime and track assets wherever they are across the country. We are now planning on expanding the use of the platform to all new Cat engines in use across the company and upgrading the fleet in the field too.” Bryan concludes: “It’s never been easier to trial the system given the highly competitive pricing levels we have introduced. Installation is straightforward with Finning experts on hand to support every step and advise on how to maximise the platform’s benefits – and crucially, get more from your equipment.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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WINT saves 652 million gallons of water, prevents 900 incidents in 2023

WINT saves 652 million gallons of water, prevents 900 incidents in 2023

Provider of powerful AI-based water management systems elevates expectations entering 2024 As organizations around the world face rising costs related to water damage and increased focus on water sustainability, WINT Water Intelligence is building on its success in 2023 to continue solving these challenges for insurance, construction, facilities, and property management companies. In 2023, WINT helped over 400 leading global enterprises mitigate water damage and reduce their environmental footprint; these customers saved a total of 652 million gallons of water which would have resulted in the release of 22,000 metric tons of carbon emissions. In addition, WINT’s solutions prevented over 900 water damage incidents with a total damage potential of tens of millions of dollars. WINT’s success in preventing water damage has helped accelerate the growth of its insurance network, which includes carriers, brokers, MGAs and risk-engineering firms and has nearly tripled during the year. “The economic impact of water damage in buildings and construction sites, combined with increased water stress and scarcity, has ripple effects that impact a wide variety of industries,” said Yaron Dycian, chief product and strategy officer for WINT. “Rising insurance costs for construction and commercial and residential buildings are adding to the impact of the climate crisis and global water shortages. We’re proud that we’ve managed to help our customers avoid the pain of water damage in their facilities, and of having helped reduce the environmental impact of building on water supplies.” Throughout the year, WINT implemented a variety of innovative solutions to help contractors, insurers and property and facilities managers meet the challenges associated with water waste and damage. Over the last 12 months, the company has: “Our achievements in 2023 reflect the serious need for lasting solutions to the problems and costs associated with leaks, water waste and water damage,” said Alon Geva, CEO of WINT. “As we continue to build on our innovation and passion for helping organizations thrive in demanding circumstances, we’re using these accomplishments as the foundation for the results we deliver to customers and our shared future success.” WINT equips contractors, developers, owners and facility management teams with a cutting-edge solution for managing water throughout the lifecycle of a building, from construction to operation. The WINT platform includes automated leak mitigation with real-time detection and auto shutoff; unparalleled anomaly detection and analytics powered by advanced AI algorithms; and enterprise-grade management for operation in large and mid-sized facilities. WINT is used globally by customers including the Empire State Building, HP, PepsiCo, Suffolk Construction, as well as many other leading enterprises, general contractors (GCs) and facility owners. For more information about WINT, visit https://wint.ai.

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University of Exeter research to reveal impact of IoT on health and wellbeing for social housing tenants

University of Exeter research unveils impact of IoT in social housing

Social return on investment project uncovers the value of IoT sensors to social housing tenant’s health and wellbeing. The University of Exeter has partnered with Aico|HomeLINK and housing industry partners, UK Housing Associations’ Charitable Trust (HACT) and Coastline Housing, for a first-of-its-kind guide and toolkit to realise the social value of Internet of Things (IoT) connected sensors. In recent years, there has been a marked shift in environmental sensor system adoption to create “smart social homes” among registered social housing providers looking to implement a more proactive strategy to identify housing issues early, rather than wait until regulation forces action. Until now, no project has developed a guide and toolkit to evaluate the societal benefits that stem from homes equipped with sensor systems. Entitled “Sensor systems for healthier social housing – A guide or understanding and evaluating the social value or indoor environment sensor systems”, the guide and toolkit aim to support informed decision-making and include establishing connections between housing and health, understanding societal value from using sensor systems, a social return on investment (SROI) forecast, templates and case studies. The toolkits have been collaboratively developed by Housing Associations with experience of sensor systems. Poplar HARCA is one East London Housing Association that has already recognised the practical benefits of smart connected home IoT sensors. Its use of Aico|HomeLINK sensors provides residents and Poplar HARCA with data that helps them to identify issues in their homes, including damp and mould monitoring, ventilation, fuel poverty and indoor air quality. Designed to gather data on indoor environmental conditions, the IoT smart home connected devices are installed in each resident’s home to measure temperature, carbon dioxide, humidity and other factors, to mitigate issues arising from problems such damp and mould, and poor or insufficient ventilation. Launched in May 2023, during the first five months of this 12-month research project, the University of Exeter developed a working logic model. This was informed by Aico|HomeLINK expertise to map out inputs, such as humidity levels, and HACT’s Social Value Insight tool, specifically designed for social housing, to map out the outcomes, such as reduced condensation. The logic model will identify what changes need to be made early in order to improve an indoor environment, such as opening windows or improving the use of heating to reduce condensation and potential hazards from mould. The team has found that sensor systems are valued by housing associations for being able to pinpoint the specific changes in housing conditions more clearly. One example of sensors in use is identifying and proactively fixing a leak in a tenant’s roof. This could prevent risks associated with damp and mould, such as respiratory illnesses, thanks to earlier resolution. This, in turn, would reduce the unaccounted public health issues and poor conditions that may be associated with social housing conditions, particularly for underprivileged and vulnerable groups. Emma Bland, Associate Professor in Environment, Health and Wellbeing at University of Exeter Medical School, concluded: “This technology has the potential to deliver organisational benefits in social housing. However, there is a lack of understanding about the broader social value gained from such systems, and the best practice for adoption.  This project builds on many years of research including the groundbreaking Smartline project which focused on more than 200 social households across six years and will strengthen existing and foster new partnerships between University of Exeter, the social housing sector, and the sensor industry.” Chris Jones, Chief Executive Officer for Aico|HomeLINK, explains: “The quality of housing has a profound and tangible influence on residents’ health and well-being. During winter, cold conditions could result in damp and mould, both of which can have a massive impact, such as triggering allergic reactions, and exacerbating asthma and other respiratory infections. By using smart connected home sensors, social landlords can enhance their delivery of safer, healthier and more sustainable homes. These sensors provide both the residents and landlords with valuable data and customised insights, enabling them both to proactively enhance the health and safety of their living spaces.” To find out more about Aico’s HomeLINK Connected Home Solution, please visit: www.aico.co.uk/homelink Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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The rise of Smart Technology - why 2024 is the year to implement change

The rise of Smart Technology – why 2024 is the year to implement change

As the UK Government’s deadline for the digital transformation looms, industries across the board are diversifying strategies, internal and external approaches and implementation of services to ensure cutting edge digital technology is embedded to drive business efficiencies and meet new industry standards.  Rapid change and adoption of digitisation is paramount in the construction industry to position the UK market alongside construction markets globally and general business infrastructure worldwide.  Richard Clement, Deputy General Manager at Smart Construction, offers his thoughts on the biggest digital and technological trends in construction for 2024.  The rise of Smart Technology – why 2024 is the year to implement change Richard says: “Businesses across multiple sectors have been implementing smart tech at a rapid pace – but construction has historically fallen behind, meaning that 2024 is the year to take the bull by the horns and invest in smart technology. “We are now seeing businesses of all sizes investing in smart technology to reduce supply chain hurdles and improve forecasting capabilities at all points of the construction journey. Due to uncertainty at the job site, investing in technology and smart solutions will help identify and prevent issues before they happen. At the close of a tumultuous year for inflation, savings are more important than ever and precise calculations are made possible by accurate insight and data collection.” One such example of smart technology benefiting supply chain hurdles and improving internal cost saving is that of Smart Construction customer , ECOSOIL Nord West GmBH. The firm employs around 300 people, and specialises in brownfield activities including land rehabilitation, environment-friendly earthworks and landfill construction. Working in partnership with the solution provider, ECOSOIL Nord West leveraged as-built data from its intelligent machines to monitor daily productivity at the Lager Waldteich project site.  The Lager Waldteich project site’s primary objective was to build a retaining structure for the former Waldteich coal storage site, into which contaminated soil could be deposited. Site data was required by site manager Thomas Vent, who wished to manage and track in real time the volume of material movement each day, ensuring new material could be ordered and delivered in time to reduce bottlenecks and pressure points. Working with experts from Smart Construction, it was advised that ECOSOIL make use of as-built intelligent machine data. Benefits were instantaneous.  Vent saved around 16 hours a month – two full working days – in time that would otherwise have been lost to travelling, surveying and processing data. Vent and his team were also able to identify any anomalies in daily performance and correct problems before they became more prominent, meaning he was also able to manage unforeseen costs. “At Smart Construction, we’ve designed an innovative portfolio of solutions, utilising hardware and software to create a full complement of IoT (Internet of Things) tools. This encompasses as-built data presented on our Dashboard gleaned from 3D Machine Guidance retrofit equipment as well as intelligent Machine Control, which is installed on a number of Komatsu machines. Smart Construction’s Remote offers site management the flexibility to send new design data to the field remotely, ensuring that teams are working off the most up-to-date plans for a project. These are simply a few ways smart technology and IoT can support in creating an even more profitable job site.  Drones and surveying: a new way to approach the site  Survey data has long been a prerequisite for construction, with regular site surveillance common practice for earthworks projects and prep for vertical builds. Regular site data has been historically collected with survey teams journeying to site and taking individual readings to build a comprehensive view of the site, pinpointing any areas of concern and building an ongoing view of the works.  Richard believes this has seen a huge shift, saying: “Surveying was historically time consuming, labour intensive and fairly short sighted in terms of outputs, with results delivered back to clients over a course of days or weeks, by which point many measurements can be out of date. With the introduction of drone technology at the job site, managers are able to take more regular measurements of the terrain, with more data available to them including material moved over a given time period, changes in terrain profile, and more. These changes have been rapid, and have helped the industry reach new levels of efficiency, making surveying much more self-sufficient. “Not only does this reduce cost due to the fact that external surveying teams no longer need to make long journeys to site, but also offers more effective insight in much quicker time to make decisions.” Connected Construction sites and their impact on the landscape Using IoT connected sensors, devices and software, Connected Construction sites connect people, equipment and data. This allows real time communication and collaboration between all stakeholders, according to Richard.  He says: “One of the significant challenges faced in earthmoving tasks is the unpredictability of what lies beneath the surface. Despite careful planning, unexpected conditions often emerge once digging commences, disrupting original plans. Instead of merely dealing with these unforeseen circumstances as they arise, a connected site offers a more dynamic solution. It monitors site activities, assesses any deviations, and modifies the plan accordingly, ensuring continuous alignment with the project’s requirements. “Employing an updated digital twin for all job sites will allow the industry to visualise, plan and execute with precision. Instead of using the digital twin as a reactive tool to troubleshoot issues, it can be utilised proactively in the planning stage. This proactive approach will ensure that projects are executed with confidence, knowing that the plans are well-informed and feasible.” As technology continues to be at the forefront of investment and business growth, the efficient application of connected construction sites looks to be revolutionising the industry in 2024.  For more information about Smart Construction, please visit smartconstruction.io. 

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AI-powered tool to simplify navigating electromechanical repair and maintenance standards

AI-powered tool to simplify navigating electromechanical repair and maintenance standards

The Association of Electrical and Mechanical Trades (AEMT) is working with the British Standards Institute (BSI) and UKRI’s Driving the Electric Revolution Challenge, delivered by Innovate UK, to develop an AI-powered tool to help electromechanical repair specialists ensure they repair hazardous area motors to the correct standard. The tool, which is being developed with some funding and support from Innovate UK, will enable engineers repairing rotating electrical equipment to clarify technical requirements through an easy-to-operate chatbot-style interface. Within the BS EN and IEC 60079 series of standards, various technical standards govern, among other things, the repair, overhaul, reclamation, installation, maintenance, and inspection, plus the design, testing and marking of equipment designed for use in explosive atmospheres. Navigating and interpreting this complex range of standards can be time-consuming and open to error. In addition, these standards are reviewed and updated periodically; however, it can be a challenge to ensure the right standard is used in conjunction with the age of the equipment being repaired. The tool under development by the AEMT and BSI aims to vastly simplify interpreting and complying with these complex standards while reducing the potential for error. Users of the system will be able to ask questions about the repair they are working on and be provided with the technical guidance and information required to ensure compliance and safety. The chat-based interface draws on large language model technology, which allows for further detail or clarification where needed. This is particularly valuable in interpreting a range of cross-referenced documents, where identifying the pertinent parts of various standards is not straightforward. By understanding the year in which the type of hazardous area equipment was certified, which can be established from the first two digits of the certificate number, the chatbot will be able to establish which version of the relevant standard applies. For example, in the 2000 version of the Ex d standard BS EN 50018, the dimensions relating to flame paths differ from those in the 2004 version, IEC 60079-1. However, where IEC 60079-19, which covers the repair, overhaul, and reclamation of equipment designed for use in explosive atmospheres, is concerned, the chatbot will only give information from the latest version. This is because repair procedures improve over the different versions released. For example, a go-no-go test, which helps to check for damaged threads, was introduced in the latest edition, 2019, but this is not referenced in the 2015 version of the same standard. The tool will initially cover ten versions of four different BS EN Hazardous Area standards and is due to be tested by AEMT members and rolled-out from quarter 2, 2024. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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New collision prediction system launched by Brigade Electronics

New collision prediction system launched by Brigade Electronics

Brigade Electronics has launched Radar Predict – its latest innovative side Blind Spot Information System (BSIS) collision prediction safety technology specifically designed to protect cyclists from incidents with HGVs. Even before its launch, this product was already receiving positive feedback during customer trials and has earned expert recognition, being honoured as the ‘Most Innovative Product of the Year’ at the Motor Transport Awards. Utilising artificial intelligence (AI), Radar Predict alerts the driver about potential collisions by analysing data such as the speed and direction of the vehicle, and cyclists nearby. The system uses its specially designed algorithm to alert drivers when an impact with a cyclist is likely. Incidents involving large vehicles, such as HGVs, are far more likely to prove fatal than those involving a car. Many of the collisions between cyclists and HGVs occur because the driver has limited ‘direct vision’ from their cab (the ability to see what is outside the vehicle without using indirect aids, such as mirrors or cameras). Radar Predict supports HGV driver visibility via a single dual-radar unit, which is fitted to the nearside of the vehicle to provide complete side coverage, including the trailer unit. A trailer discovery mode will detect whether the vehicle is fitted with a trailer and prevents the articulation from causing false alerts. The driver is alerted only if a cyclist enters the detection zone and poses a potential collision risk. The system issues differentiated visual and audible alerts based on the time to collision, providing an initial notification upon detection and escalating to a more urgent warning if it predicts an imminent collision. Radar Predict’s key features include: Thierry Bourgeay, Senior Product Manager at Brigade Electronics, said: “Radar Predict has been specifically developed to address the issues caused by blind spots for HGV drivers when manoeuvring in close proximity to cyclists. The system ensures full coverage down the nearside of the vehicle, including the trailer, and greatly reduces false alerts for drivers as it will only activate when a collision is likely. Additionally, Radar Predict will automatically activate when the vehicle is turning, so no indicator selection is required by the driver.”   To find out more about Brigade’s Radar Predict and its portfolio of vehicle safety solutions, please visit https://brigade-electronics.com/products/radar-obstacle-detection/radar-predict/. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Construction SMEs undecided about impact of artificial intelligence

Despite the significant rise in the profile of artificial intelligence (AI), the UK’s Construction SMEs are largely undecided about the impact it will have on their business, sector and jobs. The findings are taken from the latest independent research* from Close Brothers Asset Finance and Leasing. Nearly six in 10 (56%) of respondents are of the view that AI will have a bearing on their business, but are undecided about the scale, with 21% (UK average: 20%) thinking it will have a large impact compared to 16% (UK average: 9%) who say it won’t have any measurable impact. Q: How much of an impact, if any at all, do you think the increasing presence of artificial intelligence will have on your business? A large impact 21% Some impact 35% Not much of an impact 23% No impact at all 16% Unsure 4% Business owners are split about whether to incorporate AI into their business processes, with 39% (UK average: 41%) saying they will against 47% (UK average: 40%) who have no intention of doing so. The remaining 15% (UK average: 19%) haven’t yet made up their minds. The key question about potential job losses brought about by AI also divided the crowd, with 43% (UK average: 42%) saying AI will lead to large scale job losses in their sector; 45% (UK average: 43%)  are of the opposite view while 12% (UK average: 15%) are unsure:   Yes No Unsure UK total 42% 43% 15% Manufacturing & Engineering 42% 43% 15% Food and Drink 42% 40% 18% Construction 43% 45% 12% Print and Packaging 52% 40% 8% Recruitment 40% 44% 16% Agriculture 38% 48% 13% Services (e.g. Finance, healthcare, Education, IT) 46% 35% 19% Transport & Haulage 34% 49% 17% Wholesale and distribution 39% 46% 15% While many see AI as a potential threat, more of the UK’s Construction SME business owners see the technology presenting opportunities for growth and employment in their sector than those who do not. Yes 46% (UK average: 46%) No 35% (UK average: 36%) Unsure 19% (UK average: 18%) The business areas (in order) most at risk from AI – according to respondents – are: Our view Matt Roper, CEO of Close Brothers’ Commercial business, said: “Artificial Intelligence already impacts us on a daily basis in hundreds of ways, from route mapping to using chat bots to answer questions, and it’s only likely to become more prominent in the coming years. “Our research is telling us a number of things; firstly, there’s an understandable lack of consensus about AI’s current and potential impact, largely because it’s only gained traction in the public imagination fairly recently. There’s also no agreed definition of what AI actually is. “Secondly, there’s a recognition that it could present opportunities for firms to use AI to their advantage, particularly in those sectors that are more reliant on digital innovation. “And lastly, firms aren’t yet sure quite how to incorporate AI into their business processes.” For a more detailed breakdown or discussion about the results, contact Anton Nebbe, Head of PR and Communications, 07736 286 144, anton.nebbe@closebrothers.com. For more news from Close Brothers Asset Finance, please click here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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University prioritises student safety and wellbeing by upgrading to IoT alarm systems within student accommodation

University prioritises student safety and wellbeing by upgrading to IoT alarm systems within student accommodation

Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU) has upgraded its student accommodation alarm systems via the implementation of IoT connected smart home sensors from Aico. The university offers guaranteed accommodation, to all students during their first year. Following the most recent British Standard revision for the planning, design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of fire detection and fire alarm systems in UK domestic premises, CCCU sought to upgrade all of its fire and smoke alarms to a Category LD1. This is the highest level of protection and incudes alarm coverage in all areas where a fire could start. Alongside fire detection, Aico’s HomeLINK Connected Home Solution has been designed to gather data on indoor environmental conditions. monitoring indoor air quality, Aico HomeLINK connected devices check temperature, humidity, ventilation, and carbon dioxide levels, enabling proactive maintenance and improved indoor conditions across CCCU’s student homes. The sensors give occupants actionable insights into the indoor environment in their student accommodation to help them prevent condensation, and damp and mould and provide a better experience within their accommodation The Aico HomeLINK solution also minimises nuisance and false alarms, by offering the university’s security and fire teams real-time data and trends in alarm activations to help them reduce call-outs that were not genuine fire or smoke alerts. Aico’s HomeLINK solution gives CCCU remote monitoring for property management so the right departments and people receive custom notifications and tags at the right times. This in itself has saved the university the cost of not-needed call-outs as the Aico Gateway only sends personalised notifications to whoever needs the alert and data. A CCCU Estates Team spokesperson said: “The Gateway system with instant notifications has helped us already to identify which students are triggering the alarms and then addressing the issue. The added benefit of the environmental sensors has led us to prioritise some remedial works to improve thermal efficiency of certain properties. Overall, so far it has shown how technology can benefit us as landlords, and plans are already in place to roll out across more of our properties.” The installation of the Aico Gateway sensors has tackled more problems than initially intended thanks to insights highlighting the key areas that need addressing in properties’ ventilation and insulation, and assuring the university that all of their alarm systems are working as they should. Chris Jones, Chief Executive Officer for Aico|HomeLINK, comments: “Canterbury Christ Church University is just one of the educational institutions we are working with to help keep their students safe and well. By leveraging IoT technology and integrating their teams with constant monitoring via sensors in real-time, the notifications allow the university to determine if there is a fire in progress or if the alarm is just a low battery or false activation in error by one of the students.” Aico|HomeLINK works with educational institutions across the UK, including the Universities of Bristol, Leeds and York, and Harper Adams University in Shropshire, to name just a few. Brad Wain, Regional Specification Manager, Aico, concluded: “I was thrilled to see CCCU implement Aico’s HomeLINK technology. Student accommodation providers play a key role in supporting these students as many leave home for the first time. Providing these properties with not only LD1 multi-sensor protection, but environmental sensors to monitor air quality, showcases the utmost care and consideration for the students staying in these properties.” To find out more about Aico’s HomeLINK Connected Home Solution, please visit: www.aico.co.uk/homelink Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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20,000 People Make the Switch to E-Communications

20,000 People Make the Switch to E-Communications

Leading property management company, Rendall & Rittner, is proud to announce that an impressive 20,000 of its residents have signed up for its e-communications platform. This achievement reflects Rendall & Rittner’s firm commitment to creating sustainable communities for people to live, work and play in. Having initially been recognised for its sustainable approach to property management in 2010, Rendall & Rittner has continued to strive for improvements to its robust ESG strategy. In 2023, the company received the first ever Environmental & Sustainability Impact Award at the ARMA Ace Awards. Key benefits of Rendall & Rittner’s e-communications solution include: Catherine Riva, CEO of Rendall & Rittner Ltd comments: “For many years, Rendall & Rittner has been committed to developing sustainable strategies and practices that are mindful of the wider impact of our work. By switching to e-communications, residents at the developments we manage have helped us to further minimise our environmental footprint. We want to say a big thank you to all the residents that have signed up so far.” Find out more at: https://www.rendallandrittner.co.uk/about-us/our-regions/south/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Sustainability, the hidden key of Web Summit 2023

Sustainability, the hidden key of Web Summit 2023

Although Artificial Intelligence, Regulation and Access to Capital are the main subjects of the international meeting, sustainability plays a leading role in the production of stands, particularly the one produced by Feeders, which is striving to be more and more eco-friendly The Web Summit technology event is already underway in Lisbon, Portugal, and is bringing the application of technological innovations to the centre of discussions in various areas. And although artificial intelligence is the star of the event, sustainability remains a recurring matter, this time in a practical way. Developed and executed by the ephemeral architecture studio Feeders, the space for the Porto. brand was produced with the aim of promoting the re-use of materials, reinforcing the studio’s ongoing commitment to eco-conscious practices. In order to put into action what the brands have already included in their speeches, Feeders wanted to highlight the latest trends and innovations in the sector, based on the pillars of Economy and Tourism, by designing a space that has been thought out in detail for use at this and the next edition of the Web Summit, as well as at other events. All this, emphasising the need for concrete actions and sustainable innovation in the business environment. By promoting a meeting between the entire entrepreneurial ecosystem, from large companies to start-ups, Porto aims not only to consolidate its position as a quality global destination, but also to share innovative practices and operational strategies that contribute to the city’s sustainability. The stand featured elements that reflect Feeders’ technological excellence. The brand believes that by integrating sustainability and innovation, it is possible to create a positive impact and inspire significant change. “We are very excited to have been part of the Porto. brand at Web Summit. By developing a sustainable stand, we have aligned our participation in this international event with our environmental commitments and values. Moreover, it’s another project in which we demonstrate to our clients that there are valid alternatives for both the present and the future, in other words, that we present solutions that can be used more than once,” said Joaquim Silva, one of Feeders’ founding partners. At Web Summit 2023 there is a significant part of the agenda to address fundamental matters related to sustainability, through speeches and round tables. High-profile speakers, such as Professor Chris Kroll, Sita Chantramonklasri and Rachel Delacour, share their thoughts on the importance of sustainability, highlighting how companies play a significant role in driving positive change. To download the 3D and real images of the project, click on the following link. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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